From seventh-round underdog to a multi-million dollar defensive cornerstone
In short: In the high-stakes world of professional football, late-round draft picks rarely become franchise pillars. Yet, Kamren Curl has defied the odds, evolving from a 216th overall selection into a highly-rated safety commanding a massive contract extension.
Kamren Curl's ascent began in the seventh round of the 2020 NFL draft, when the Washington Football Team selected him 216th overall. Originally a standout at Muskogee High School and later the Arkansas Razorbacks, Curl entered the league as a specialist in the secondary. His early professional years were marked by rapid adaptation; after initially serving as a backup, he earned a starting role at strong safety following an injury to veteran Landon Collins in late 2020.
His rookie campaign was particularly impactful. Beyond recording 88 combined tackles, he achieved a career milestone on December 13, 2020, when he intercepted a pass from Nick Mullens and returned it 76 yards for a touchdown. This defensive versatility—moving between cornerback and safety roles—became a hallmark of his game. By 2023, his efficiency was reflected in his Pro Football Focus (PFF) grading, where his 82.9 rating ranked him second among all safeties.
The financial trajectory of Curl's career mirrors his on-field progression. After signing a $3.40 million contract with Washington in 2020, he moved to the Los Angeles Rams on March 15, 2024, under a two-year, $9 million deal. His performance continued to climb, including a 2024 season where his coverage grade of 83.7 ranked 19th among safeties. This sustained excellence culminated in a massive three-year, $36 million contract extension with the Rams, signed on March 6, 2026, featuring $24 million in guarantees.
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