Former Arkansas Razorbacks football safety Kamren Curl has come a long way from being an overlooked draft prospect to becoming one of the most valuable pieces of the Los Angeles Rams secondary. That journey took another major step forward this offseason when the Rams rewarded Curl with a three-year, $36 million contract extension, carrying an average annual value of $12 million per year.
Kamren Curl: From Overlooked Prospect to Defensive Anchor
Curl’s NFL journey began with the Washington Commanders, where he spent four seasons developing into a dependable defensive back. After proving himself as a versatile and physical safety in Washington, Curl hit free agency and signed with the Rams on a modest deal worth roughly $4.5 million per year.
That contract quickly turned into one of the better value signings in the league.
Over the past two seasons in Los Angeles, Curl has operated as a full-time starter and a stabilizing force in the Rams’ defensive backfield. His physical style of play, reliability in coverage, and ability to contribute across the field made him a key component of the Rams’ defensive scheme.
His performance ultimately earned him a significant pay raise, placing him among the more highly compensated safeties during this offseason.
Career Year in 2025 With LA Rams
Curl delivered one of the best seasons of his career in 2025.
After four seasons without an interception, Curl finally broke through with two picks, showing improved ball production in the secondary. The soon-to-be 27-year-old also delivered one of the most productive seasons of his career, setting or matching highs with 122 total tackles, two sacks, and two interceptions, highlighting his all-around impact on defense. Add on 5 pass deflections and even 1 forced fumble to show even further how he impacted the game in an all-around way.
His tackling numbers highlight his value as a downhill defender and run supporter, while his improved playmaking ability in coverage added another layer to his game.
Curl will remain a central piece of a Rams defense that is looking to take the next step after falling just short of a Super Bowl appearance. Los Angeles came within reach of the big game but ultimately lost in the NFC Championship Game to the Seattle Seahawks.
With the extension in place, Curl will help anchor a secondary that includes fellow safety Quentin Lake and newly added cornerback Trent McDuffie. The trio gives the Rams a versatile and physical defensive backfield capable of matching up with some of the league’s most explosive passing attacks.
Razorback Roots
Before carving out his NFL success, Curl built his reputation at Arkansas. During his time with the Razorbacks, he played three seasons and steadily improved each year.
His best campaign came during his junior season, when he recorded:
- 76 tackles
- 2 interceptions
- 2 sacks
That breakout year helped propel him toward declaring for the 2020 draft, where he would begin his underdog rise to becoming a highly valued NFL starter.
Curl’s story is a reminder that draft position doesn’t always determine long-term success. Proving himself right and having the Commanders regretting letting him go after originally being the ones to give him the chance. From a seventh-round pick to a $36 million extension, he has steadily built his reputation through consistency, physicality, and reliability in the secondary.
Now firmly entrenched as a leader in the Rams defense, Curl will look to help Los Angeles turn last season’s near Super Bowl appearance into another deep playoff run, and potentially making it all the way this go around.