NFL teams don’t just come to the NFL Scouting Combine to watch draft prospects work out or go through drills. The combine is also a place where business goes down.
Throughout the years, we’ve heard many stories about how some of the NFL’s biggest deals — a trade or free-agent signing — began at the combine. While no teams can legally negotiate with players from other teams, that doesn’t stop teams and player agents from gauging interest.
The combine also represents an opportunity for NFL teams to negotiate with their own free agents. Agents represent multiple players and meet with teams to discuss potential contract terms.
The Washington Commanders have several notable free agents. One is safety Kam Curl. Washington’s previous regime made it clear how important Curl was to the franchise.
But they are gone.
Now it’s up to general manager Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn to determine Curl’s future.
In his media sessions on Tuesday, Peters confirmed the Commanders will not be using the franchise tag. So if Washington can’t strike a deal with Curl before free agency, he can sign elsewhere. While that doesn’t rule out a return, it means Curl is free to negotiate with other teams.
Does Washington want Curl back? Yes, they do.
Adam Peters said the Commanders have had talks with safety Kam Curl’s reps and will continue those.
“I can just say from playing against him … when I was in San Francisco, he was always one of the best players on the defense, a guy we had to watch out for, a guy we had to game…
— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) February 27, 2024
While this could be a case of Peters simply saying what he had to in a public setting, Curl should return. He is a good player. Washington needs good players, as both Peters and Quinn noted Tuesday. The Commanders have the cap space, but they also likely have a price. It’s doubtful Curl will be one of the NFL’s highest-paid safeties, so if that’s his asking price, Washington will allow him to hit the open market.
Ultimately, it would be best for both sides to get a deal done.