Even with Brian Flores returning as defensive coordinator, the Vikings still need more playmakers for his system. Minnesota has Josh Metellus and Theo Jackson under contract, and uses three-safety looks at times, with Jay Ward expected to be in the mix as a developing option.
Kam Curl is a former Washington Commanders draft pick who joined the Rams and enjoyed another productive season in 2025. He posted a career-high 122 tackles, plus 5 pass deflections, 2 sacks and 2 interceptions. Curl turns 27 in March, and while he has expressed a desire to remain with L.A., ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler has reported a deal there is unlikely.
Contract projections add context: Spotrac estimates Curl could command four years and about $40 million, a figure that would stretch the Vikings’ cap space. Over The Cap currently puts Minnesota roughly $48.9 million over the cap before any moves, complicating any potential pursuit without structural changes or other adjustments.
From Minnesota’s perspective, Curl could serve as Harrison Smith’s replacement if the veteran retires, or simply add a proven playmaker to Flores’ back-end rotation. The Vikings have leaned on three-safety looks, and Jackson’s emergence plus Ward’s progression could influence how aggressively they pursue Curl or similar targets.
Harrison Smith’s status remains in flux. He was 36 years old in 2025 and finished with 54 tackles, two interceptions, 10 pass deflections and one sack; Week 18’s farewell treatment sparked retirement talk, though a return isn’t out of the question. If Smith returns, the Vikings would still be weighing depth at safety, especially with Ward and Jackson in the pipeline and the potential addition of Curl or another veteran option.
