Commanders' Emmanuel Forbes vs. Cardinals' Michael Wilson: Rookie Matchup to Watch?
The Washington Commanders may have to face a rookie quarterback in Clayton Tune on Sunday when playing the Arizona Cardinals, but there's another offensive rookie the team needs to look out for.
Michael Wilson, a third-round rookie receiver out of Stanford, has quickly climbed the depth chart in Arizona and is expected to start opposite Marquise "Hollywood" Brown for the Cardinals to start the season.
"Wilson has been nothing short of impressive since arriving to the desert and his 6-2 frame mixed with route running and sure hands have quickly made him a starter opposite of Brown," All Cardinals publisher Donnie Druin said. "Though young, Wilson has an opportunity to make a big impact after impressing all through the offseason."
Wilson struggled with injuries throughout his collegiate career, playing in just 14 games across the last three seasons. In 2022, Wilson caught 26 passes for 418 yards and four touchdowns across six games for Stanford.
There's a chance during the game that Wilson will be covered by rookie cornerback Emmanuel Forbes, who is slated to make his NFL debut on Sunday.
Forbes was drafted with the No. 16 overall pick by the Commanders in April's draft and is determined to make an impact early in Washington's secondary.
Forbes has the NCAA record for pick-sixes in a career with six, and will be eager to add to his touchdown total in the pros early.
The Commanders and Cardinals begin the season Sunday at FedEx Field. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m.
