Commanders CB Emmanuel Forbes 'Splendid Splinter,' Says Analyst
It's been two weeks since the Washington Commanders began building their draft class, and they have received a mixed bag of reviews in regards to their picks.
ESPN joined in on those who liked the Commanders' class, giving them a "B" grade for their efforts.
"I liked who they added in Round 1. I've been calling cornerback Emmanuel Forbes (16) this draft's "Splendid Splinter," because of his frame," ESPN writes. "He is a thin 6-foot-1 and 166 pounds. All he does is make plays, though. He had six pick-sixes and 14 total interceptions in his college career. He should play early and often in Washington."
Forbes is a great start to the class and should be a big playmaker for the Commanders. Over his three years at Mississippi State, the 22-year-old forced 14 interceptions while tying the FBS record with six pick-sixes over his career.
But the Commanders also made moves outside of the first round, further fortifying the secondary and offensive line.
"The Commanders went back to the secondary in Round 2, picking my fourth-ranked safety Jartavius Martin (47), who played a lot as a nickel," ESPN writes. "They ranked 26th in takeaways last season (18), so they went all-in on needs. They also added two interior linemen with their next two picks. I thought they reached a round for center Ricky Stromberg (97), but the four-year starter is technically sound. Braeden Daniels (118) is light on his feet but undersized; he is my seventh-ranked guard."
As for where the Commanders could have made things better, drafting a signal caller with some more upside apart from Sam Howell and Jacoby Brissett could have been an option.
"The quarterback question likely will linger into 2024, and I'm not sure Washington hit all of its needs outside of the secondary with this class," ESPN writes.
Time will tell whether the Commanders made smart choices in this year's draft, but if Washington fails to finish above .500 once again, it could lead to changes that won't just affect the players.
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