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The up-and-coming Washington Commanders could use some help at cornerback. The surprise NFC contender also informed teams that 2023 first-round pick CB Emmanuel Forbes is available ahead of Tuesday's trade deadline.

These two statements seem contradictory. They are not. Forbes, selected 16th overall, struggled greatly during his rookie season under Ron Rivera's regime. The new team with head coach Dan Quinn has tried to help Forbes find his confidence and his path. No luck with the slim corner so far.

The Mississippi State product joined backup QB Marcus Mariota as the only players not to play a snap in Washington's 27-22 win at the New York Giants. This came after Forbes had a healthy lead in a Week 6 loss to the Ravens and received six snaps in the week's Hail Mary victory over the Bears.

The 7-2 Commanders roll behind rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. They have improved defensively, but concerns at cornerback (and against the run) remain. The rotation consists almost entirely of Benjamin St-Juste, Mike Sainristil and Noah Igbinoghene. The trio is part of Washington's vigorous and tenacious defense. However, Sainristil, a tenacious second-round rookie and natural slot CB, is playing out of position and St-Juste is outmatched against the opposing No. 1. 1 receiver.

The other downside is that there is no clear substitute or substitution if needed. Veteran Michael Davis is limited to special teams and Forbes has played sparingly. Forbes, the FBS career record holder with six interceptions returned for touchdowns, is under contract through 2026.

Under GM Adam Peters, Washington remained disciplined and took a long-term approach despite becoming an NFC contender. League sources said that while commanders are willing to listen to offers and let teams know they are looking for CB help, it doesn't make sense for Peters to change his approach for a flashy name.

Marshon Lattimore of the Saints and Greg Newsome of the Browns are among the names mentioned by sources as possible deadline targets. Both are playing on contracts that extend beyond 2024 and are expected to earn eight-figure salaries in 2025, a reality that could prevent Washington from competing.