Commanders' Rivera stands by benching 1st-rounder Forbes

Washington Commanders head coach Ron Rivera is standing by his decision to bench rookie cornerback Emmanuel Forbes during Thursday night's game against the Chicago Bears.

"We have to continue to put the guys out there that we believe are gonna get it done the right away," Rivera said Friday.

Forbes struggled through most of Thursday's contest before Rivera pulled the 2023 No. 16 pick in favor of Danny Johnson in the club's 40-20 loss.

The result is Washington's third straight defeat after starting the season with back-to-back victories. Rivera added Friday that he won't continue to play younger players if they struggle and harm the team's chances of winning.

"I think doing what we did with Emmanuel was kind of the indicator that we can't go through this anymore," Rivera said. "Now it's time."

Forbes has allowed 20 receptions on 27 targets for 401 yards and two touchdowns through five games. However, the 180-pound corner has broken up four passes and recorded an interception. Forbes has garnered a 37 overall grade and a 43.8 coverage grade, per PFF.

Despite his warning to players, Rivera said he takes responsibility for the club's woes and emphasized that the team will grow as its younger members progress.

"We'll get those things corrected," said Rivera. "We're a young team. We have some young players that we're trying to develop and get them out there and doing the things we need them to do."

The Commanders head to Atlanta to face the Falcons in Week 6.

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