In the Los Angeles Rams’ season opener against the San Francisco 49ers, one of the most surprising developments was the complete absence of cornerback Emmanuel Forbes Jr. from the defensive lineup. Although the team had featured Forbes prominently during training camp and joint practices, he did not register a single defensive snap when the game began.
The situation grew even more puzzling when Kam Curl’s injury forced Jaylen McCollough into a larger role, which in turn led to Josh Wallace coming off the bench for seven snaps. The Rams’ decision to deploy Wallace rather than Forbes strongly suggests that Los Angeles is treating the young cornerback as a depth option, similar to the way it has handled Darious Williams.
Forbes certainly has his weaknesses; he can be vulnerable to double moves and hasn’t always been the most reliable technician. However, he was arguably the Rams’ best outside cornerback last season, going head-to-head with Jaxon Smith-Njigba in a matchup the team desperately needed won. When Forbes was off the field, the Rams’ defense consistently struggled at its worst.
With McCollough shouldering an increased workload, one would expect Trent McDuffie to shift inside and Forbes to step into the rotation. Instead, Wallace was inserted, raising a significant question heading into Week 2.
If Forbes remains on the sidelines, how will Los Angeles defend against a New York Giants offense that could pose even greater challenges than what San Francisco presented? On paper, Malik Nabers is already poised to be a major problem, and Isaiah Likely continues to emerge as one of the league’s most dynamic tight ends.
In the opener, the Rams’ secondary was thoroughly exposed. It would be unfair to say the players weren’t prepared, but Trent McDuffie was the only defensive back who appeared comfortable and in command of his assignment.
Whatever criticisms might be directed at Forbes, there is no denying he could help alleviate some of the pressure on McDuffie and potentially restore Quentin Lake to his standard form. If that doesn’t materialize, trading Forbes may become a viable option. Multiple teams reportedly pursued Terrion Arnold, even though he was never expected to be available to begin the season due to his legal circumstances. Forbes holds trade value, and the Rams could benefit from accumulating future draft picks.
Regardless of the outcome, the prolonged absence of Forbes and the mounting uncertainty surrounding the secondary represent a troubling sign for a team with championship aspirations. Perhaps a home game will provide a suitable setting to address these issues, or maybe a straightforward lineup adjustment could be the answer.
