The Washington Commanders released cornerback Emmanuel Forbes Jr. as part of their ongoing purge of previous unsuccessful first-round selections, and they placed running back Austin Ekeler on injured reserve.
Ekeler will now miss at least four weeks after suffering a concussion while returning a kickoff in the closing seconds of last week’s 34-26 loss to Dallas. Ekeler may only miss three games if he can make it back, since Washington (7-5) plays Tennessee (3-8) on Sunday.
However, they have a bye on December 8. Following the play, Ekeler lay motionless on the ground until being hoisted to his feet and drowsily making his way to the sidelines.
Ekeler also sustained a concussion during a Week 4 game against Arizona. With 701 yards from scrimmage, he leads Washington’s running backs. He has also carried for 355 yards and caught 346.
Earlier this week, Washington added running back Chris Rodriquez Jr. to the roster to support Jeremy McNichols and Brian Robinson Jr. Forbes was chosen as the 16th overall choice in the 2023 draft, ahead of corners such Joey Porter Jr. of Pittsburgh and Christian Gonzalez of New England. The former coaching staff and front management in Washington appreciated Forbes’ skill at snatching the ball away. He set a Division I record with six passes returned for a touchdown during his career at Mississippi State, where he intercepted 14 passes.
But Forbes started only seven games in two seasons and played in only six games in 2024 with one start. He was benched both years, but also suffered from various injuries that sidelined him. If Forbes goes unclaimed on waivers, he would count $9.1 million against their salary cap in 2025.