Should Bills Target Commanders Rookie CB Emmanuel Forbes?

When the Buffalo Bills visit the Washington Commanders on Sunday, rookie cornerback Emmanuel Forbes may be circled on the game plan.

The Buffalo Bills will visit the undefeated Washington Commanders on Sunday as they look to get above .500 for the first time this season. Against a strong Washington defense, there will be little room for error.

However, the Commanders’ secondary isn’t as solidified as their defensive line. Targeting rookie cornerback Emmanuel Forbes, both through the air and on the ground, could be fruitful for Buffalo.

That isn’t to say Forbes’ start has been particularly bad. The 16th overall pick this past April, Forbes may not provide the instant impact that New England Patriots corner Christian Gonzalez has, but there have certainly been flashes of excellence.

In Week 1’s 20-16 win over the Arizona Cardinals, Forbes had a late pass deflection that all but clinched the victory. A week later, he would come away with his first career interception.

Where Forbes has fallen short, though, has been with his consistency. The length and burst are apparent, proving he can be a lockdown corner has yet to come to fruition. Of course, that’s okay—it’s been two weeks! But the window is open for the Bills to attack the rookie.

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According to Pro Football Focus, Forbes has given up 125 yards this season. Only 11 corners have allowed more through two weeks. If Buffalo can get elite receiver Stefon Diggs on Forbes, the opportunity to strike will be ever-present.

Further, Forbes has been dangerously inconsistent against the run. While the Bills’ between-the-tackles rushing attack has floundered, they found success with sprint draws to the boundary in Week 2. Putting Forbes in positions to tackle could induce a game-changing business decision.

PFF has tagged Forbes with an abysmal 28 run defense grade this season. With quarterback Josh Allen’s propensity to scramble, it’s easy to see those inconsistencies coming up in Buffalo’s favor. Nobody wants to tackle Buffalo’s behemoth quarterback, much less an 180-pound cornerback.

The Bills are expected to handle business against a Commanders team with lesser expectations. Using their talent advantage against a rookie cornerback may be the easiest path to victory on Sunday at FedEx Field.