Kam Curl’s Worth To The Commanders?

His time here in Washington has been a story in itself. After being selected in the seventh round (216th overall) of the 2020 NFL Draft, only a few fans expected Curl to emerge into the player we see three years
later. Curl’s career so far speaks for itself, with 44 games played, 37 starts, 3 INTs, 1 TD, nine
pass deflections, four sacks, and 270 combined tackles. This seventh rounder has exceeded
expectations considering the draft spot. As we embark on the upcoming offseason, we ask
ourselves, where do you see Kam Curl’s value when talking about a contract extension? 

Determining Value

When it comes to a contract extension, Curl is a polarizing player. Some fans consider Curl as merely a seventh rounder, and his production compares to several other starting strong safeties in the league. Others believe that he has earned a hefty contract in comparison to safeties like Derwin James, Budda Baker, and Talanoa Hufanga. The question is, what does the front office see as far as value goes when it comes to Curl?

The first question you should ask is, “Where does Kam Curl stand amongst other
safeties? According to PFF.com, Curl is the second highest-graded safety in the NFL. However,
according to profootballnetwork.com, in June 2022, Kam Curl was rated 29th among the safeties
in the NFL.

When you are grading safeties, what are you analyzing? What are the traits you look for in a
safety? What skillset do these GMs and coaches value more when looking at safeties? According
to bleacherreport.com, there is a breakdown of traits that rank today’s NFL safeties.
Remember that some safeties can play on both sides, one side, the box, etc. So when you are
looking for a specific type of safety, what traits do you put more value into when you are looking
for a safety?

But in the NFL, it isn’t just about skill sets and traits; there is also a market value in each
position. Using the chart provided by overthecap.com, you will see the total value and the
average yearly amount with the safeties in the NFL.

Just looking at the top 32, the market is high and is increasing. Of course, Curl will not reach James’ $19mil per year next season, but how much should Curl’s extension be for his production during his rookie contract?

I see Curl making close to $10m per year, as that is what the market dictates. At the minimum, he can
make at least $8mil a year. His first three seasons have impacted the team and heavy production
within the defense, but he has yet to reach elite contract levels.

THERE IS NO RUSH to see Kam reach the elite-level contracts. Fans need to relax and let him
develop and get better as his career as an NFL safety continues. Despite his draft spot, he can be
a franchise safety here in Washington. Curl last recorded an INT in his rookie year, along with
pass deflections. Yes, there is more to the safety position than INTs, but judging what the other
safeties NFL brings, I need Kam to step up and show out next season. Make me a believer.