Kamren Curl’s potential addition to the Packers’ defense brings a significant boost in versatility, a trait highly valued in today’s defensive strategies. In modern defensive schemes, safeties are expected to excel in various roles, including playing both deep coverage and moving around the formation flexibly.Curl has demonstrated his ability to fulfill these requirements effectively. He has showcased versatility by playing a notable percentage of his snaps in different positions, including in the box and in the slot. This versatility makes him a valuable asset for any defensive coordinator, as he can adapt to different situations and cover various assignments on the field.
While Curl may not have an extensive track record of ball production, such as interceptions, his impressive tackling ability adds another dimension to his skill set. Despite the lack of interceptions, his high number of total tackles and his average tackle depth indicate his effectiveness in run defense, a crucial aspect of safety play.
The Packers have attempted to address their safety needs in the past through veteran free agents on short-term contracts. However, Curl presents an intriguing option for the team, especially considering the impending free agency of several of their current safeties.
If the Packers can manage to create some salary-cap space, pursuing Curl would be a logical move. His addition could not only fill a positional need but also potentially elevate the secondary’s performance. With a new defensive coordinator like Jeff Hafley, who has a strong background in working with secondaries, Curl could further develop his skills and potentially improve his ball production, adding another dimension to the Packers’ defense.
Safety Will Be A Point Of Emphasis For The Packers This Off-Season
Green Bay Packers safety Darnell Savage (26) returns an interception for a touchdown during the second quarter of the wild card playoff game against the Dallas Cowboys Sunday, January 14, 2024 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
It is the second straight year in a row that the Green Bay Packers are dealing with major safety concerns in the offseason. All three of the team’s safety starters who played nine or more games in 2023 are unrestricted free agents. For the 2024 season, Darnell Savage, Rudy Ford, and Jonathan Owens are not under contract.
Most teams want some continuity on their roster, even with new defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley bringing in a different defensive scheme.
Among the three candidates, Savage has the most athletic ability. Originally drafted out of Maryland in the first round, he played on his fifth-year option this past season. His career should be in its prime as he turns 27 in July.
Even with his inconsistent play at times, he seems like the most likely to return. That still leaves more questions than answers at the position. Curl could answer a lot of those questions for the team.
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