The Los Angeles Rams have claimed cornerback Emmanuel Forbes Jr. off waivers from the Washington Commanders, head coach Sean McVay said Monday.

Forbes, the No. 16 pick in 2023, was cut by the Commanders on Saturday. He started seven games in two seasons but only one in 2024. He was benched in both seasons and missed time due to injury.

He was selected by the Commanders' previous front office and coaching staff that liked that Forbes was adept at taking the ball away. He intercepted 14 passes in his career at Mississippi State, setting a Division I record with six returned for a touchdown.

McVay said Forbes was a player the Rams liked coming out of college, praising his ball production, versatility, "competitive toughness on the edge" and good ball skills.

"He was a guy that we liked and had a familiarity with just based on the evaluation coming out of Mississippi State," McVay said. "And then I thought there was some good tape that he's put out there when we've gone against them, particularly later in the year last year."

Forbes is under contract through 2026 with a fifth-year option in 2027 the Rams can exercise.

In two seasons, Forbes has two interceptions and 45 tackles in 20 games.

ESPN's John Keim contributed to this report.