As Kamren Curl embarks on the next chapter of his NFL career with the Los Angeles Rams, there’s an anticipation surrounding the impact he could have on a defense in transition. Curl’s journey from an under-the-radar seventh-round draft pick in 2020 to a key defensive playmaker has been nothing short of impressive, and now, under the bright lights of Los Angeles, he has the opportunity to elevate his game even further.
A Rising Star in Washington
Curl’s rise began with the Washington Commanders, where he quickly proved that his draft status didn’t define his potential. In his rookie season, Curl stepped into the starting lineup due to injuries and never looked back. He finished his debut season with 88 tackles, four passes defended, and three interceptions, including one returned for a touchdown.
By his second season, Curl had cemented his role as one of the Commanders’ most reliable defenders. His 2021 campaign saw him rack up 99 tackles, two tackles for loss, and one sack, further showcasing his ability to play all over the field, something that the Rams value in their defenders.
2022: A Breakout Year
The 2022 season marked Curl’s breakout as one of the top safeties in the league. He finished the season with 83 tackles, including 62 solo stops, demonstrating his prowess as a tackler. Curl’s missed tackle rate was among the best in the league, a remarkable improvement from his rookie year when tackling consistency was an area of concern. His ability to limit big plays was crucial for a Commanders’ defense that relied heavily on its secondary to compensate for an inconsistent pass rush.
In coverage, Curl took his game to another level. Pro Football Focus (PFF) graded Curl as one of the top safeties in the league, particularly praising his versatility and football IQ.
A New Challenge with the Los Angeles Rams
Now with the Rams, Curl enters a defense that has undergone significant changes. The departure of Jordan Fuller and turnover on defense has left a void in the secondary that Curl is expected to help fill. The Rams are banking on his ability to bring stability and leadership to a unit that struggled at times last season, particularly in coverage.
Curl emphasized the strong team culture and the quality of the coaching staff as key factors in his decision to join the Rams. He noted, “Really, the coaches, the staff, the players we have here. We’ve got a real good team, you know. They made the playoffs last year, and I’m trying to come help.”
Curl’s versatility will be crucial for the Rams as they look to deploy him in various roles. Whether it’s playing deep safety, covering tight ends in the slot, or even stepping up in run support, Curl’s skill set fits perfectly with what the Rams need. Given the Rams’ defensive scheme, which often relies on safeties to be interchangeable and versatile, Curl is expected to thrive under the guidance of new defensive coordinator Chris Shula.
In 2023, the Rams’ secondary allowed a passer rating of 89.6, ranking them in the middle of the league. Curl’s arrival is expected to help turn that around. His ability to read offenses, combined with his tackling and coverage skills, should provide an immediate boost to a Rams defense looking to regain its status as one of the league’s elite units even without Aaron Donald.
The Road Ahead
As the 2024 season approaches, Kamren Curl’s integration into the Rams’ defense will be one of the most intriguing storylines to watch. If he can carry over the momentum from his time in Washington, the Rams may have found the centerpiece for their secondary. Curl is entering the team as somewhat of a budget-free agent, and a strong performance this season could position him for an extension, either with the Rams or elsewhere.
For now, Rams fans can look forward to watching a player who has consistently exceeded expectations and is now poised to make an even bigger impact on a new stage. With his combination of physicality, intelligence, and versatility, Kamren Curl could be the key to the Rams’ defensive resurgence in 2024.