BREAKING: Commanders Cut Former First-Round CB Emmanuel Forbes, Place RB Austin Ekeler On Injured Reserve
The Washington Commanders made two significant moves today, making waves across the NFL with unexpected roster changes. In an effort to continue reshaping their roster, Washington waived former first-round cornerback Emmanuel Forbes, signaling the end of his brief tenure with the team just two years after being drafted. Additionally, veteran running back Austin Ekeler was placed on injured reserve, sidelining him for an extended period due to a concussion.
Forbes, who was selected 16th overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, was a controversial pick at the time. The Commanders opted for the undersized cornerback out of Mississippi State over Oregon’s Christian Gonzalez, despite many analysts rating Gonzalez as the superior prospect. At the NFL Scouting Combine, Forbes measured in at under 170 pounds, making him the lightest cornerback drafted since 2000. Nonetheless, his college career featured impressive stats, including 14 interceptions and six touchdowns over four seasons. In his rookie year, Forbes showcased his ball skills with one interception and 10 passes defensed, but a slew of injuries during his sophomore campaign led to inconsistent play. After missing six games this season and falling behind other, later-round cornerbacks on the depth chart, the Commanders couldn’t find any trade interest in the young corner, leading to his release.
Nicki Jhabvala of the Washington Post highlighted a growing trend of first-round picks under the team’s previous management being shown the door. Since 2019, players such as Montez Sweat, Dwayne Haskins, Chase Young, Jamin Davis, and now Forbes have either been cut or traded, signaling a shift in Washington’s roster-building philosophy.
In another move that could impact the team’s offensive production, Ekeler was placed on injured reserve due to a concussion. The 29-year-old has been a pivotal player for Washington, ranking third on the team in rushing yards and receptions, as well as trailing only Terry McLaurin in total yards from scrimmage. However, after failing to clear the NFL’s concussion protocol, Ekeler will now miss multiple weeks of action. With his absence, players like Jeremy McNichols and Olamide Zaccheaus may need to step up and contribute in the running and passing game.
The Commanders have yet to fill the vacant roster spots, but they did announce temporary practice squad elevations for defensive tackle Carl Davis and kicker Zane Gonzalez, the latter stepping in to handle kicking duties for the third time this season following Austin Seibert’s placement on IR. Washington’s roster moves come at a time when the team is clearly prioritizing a fresh start, leaving fans wondering what other changes may be in store for the rest of the season.
