Los Angeles found a way to add a first-round pick at cornerback to their 2025 roster. Only, it wasn't through a splashy signing in free agency. Nor was it via the NFL Draft.
Rather, back in the fall of 2024, Les Snead and company threw a dart. The Rams front office made a low-risk investment in Emmanuel Forbes Jr., who got caught up in the wash of a coaching change in Washington and was waived midway through his second professional season.
"That was the first time in my life," Forbes said of being cut after having high-level success at every stage of his athletic career.
Rams head coach Sean McVay and defensive coordinator Chris Shula gave Forbes an audition of sorts in Week 18 against Seattle, while most of last year's starters were resting for the playoffs. That sample, combined with the preparation Forbes put in this offseason, had the 24-year-old slated to start for the Rams in his first full season in Horns.
"They pour so much confidence in me and just let me go out there and play my game," Forbes said on this week's Rams Revealed. "That's a big thing that I feel like wasn't happening in Washington."
"I think he's earned the right to have a lot more confidence," McVay said of affirming the 16th overall selection from 2023. "Four of the most powerful words you can tell somebody are, 'I believe in you.' It has to be authentic. It has to be earned."
The Mississippi native, who set an FBS record with six interception returns for touchdowns in a three-season college career, will have another chance to earn it this Sunday. With veteran Ahkello Witherspoon heading to injured reserve, the Rams need Forbes more than ever as they travel to Philadelphia to face the reigning champions.
For a preview of that Eagles contest, as well a profile of Forbes as a person and player, we invite you to join us for Rams Revealed, available now on YouTube or in audio format wherever you get your podcasts.
