Emmanuel Forbes is playing himself off next season's Rams roster

Fans know that the Los Angeles Rams completely overhauled last year's secondary. While the team happily extended safeties Quentin Lake and Kam Curl, one of the few cornerbacks to return in 2026 was Emmanuel Forbes Jr.

The hope was that, in a less demanding role, Forbes might flourish as a niche cover corner. So far, that hasn't happened.

Forbes has suited up for 46 defensive snaps and 19 on special teams. He's allowed two catches on four targets, has one pass defensed, and two tackles. Unfortunately, one of those receptions was a touchdown. Pro Football Focus has been very kind to Forbes, bestowing a grade of 76.6 on his performance after three games.

So where's the problem?

The devil is in the details. When both were healthy, Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson handled the lion's share of the work. But it has been Josh Wallace, and not Forbes, as the first cornerback off the bench this season. It was not until Watson was injured that Forbes found any real action.

And giving up a touchdown is not a great showing.

Forbes hasn't done much to convince Rams he should stick around

Forbes may have earned a spot on this season's Rams roster, but financial pressure is mounting for next season. With more than two dozen worthy players on expiring contracts, Forbes finds himself at the back of the line for an extension.

The Rams need to extend such significant contributors as wide receiver Puka Nacua, four of five starting offensive linemen, edge rusher Byron Young, and defensive lineman Kobie Turner. Frankly, Forbes' case for a return to the team is lacking.

That could change if he has an outstanding season, but thus far, the team has hesitated to afford him opportunities. He seems unlikely to be re-signed.

That said, Forbes could advance his cause rather quickly. Although in a tiny sample, he has limited yards per catch to a paltry 3.0, while holding yards per target to an even better 1.5. He plays with energy. Despite his slim size, Forbes is a hard-hitter.

He has even avoided the missed-tackle gaffes that have plagued him in the past. Three games into his fourth season, he has a 19.8 percent missed-tackle rate.

Forbes is not out the door just yet. But he does have one foot there. The Rams will have limited dollars to retain a vast number of players at season's end. As it stands now, Forbes is more likely to find his next contract elsewhere.

As always, thanks for reading.

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