7 cornerbacks the Vikings could select in the 2023 NFL draft
By Darcy Weiss
Emmanuel Forbes (Mississippi St.)
Measurements:
- Height: 6-foot-0 | Weight: 180 pounds
2022 Stats:
- 46 tackles
- 6 interceptions
- 10 passes defended
Emmanuel Forbes is an extremely athletic prospect who possesses incredible 4.35 40 speed. The Mississippi St. product displayed his athleticism at the NFL draft combine, finishing in the 93rd percentile or better in the 40-yard dash, broad jump, and 10-yard split.
He showed fantastic, tight man-coverage skills along with an aggressive style in both tackling and making plays on the ball. His versatility and ability to play both press-man and zone coverage make him a valuable prospect. Forbes has all of the tools required to grow into a true shutdown cornerback and could provide great production in the NFL.
The main knock on Forbes would be his current frame. Listed at 180 pounds, he would need to put on some weight in order to break off blocks and keep up with strong, physical receivers at the NFL level. Forbes has been undisciplined at times, taking penalties while out of position. But his speed allows him to make up for some mistakes.
He has shown a strong ability and desire to make tackles in the run game, but his lack of size could prevent him from getting through physical receivers.
Overall, his athletic abilities, strong coverage skills and football instincts should allow for great success as an NFL cornerback, and should be considered as the Vikings first round selection.