Commanders News: Logan Thomas, Sam Howell, Kamren Curl and Chase Young
By Dean Jones
Which Washington Commanders news stories are hitting the headlines as the team gets set for a long weekend off before returning for the next batch of OTAs?
It was an extremely worthwhile first official portion of OTAs as the Washington Commanders ramp up preparations for the new season. This was the introductory phase with rookies and veterans coming together, but there was a notable increase in tempo and coaches such as Eric Bieniemy who weren't afraid to let players know when standards were slipping.
This bodes well for the group heading into the next series of OTAs, mandatory minicamp, and the team's training camp this summer. Until then, the stories causing debate include Kamren Curl's new contract, Logan Thomas on Armani Rogers, Sam Howell drawing rave reviews, and more Chase Young trade talk.
Let's delve into each topic in more detail.
Kamren Curl's new Commanders contract 'on hold'
In fairness to Kamren Curl, he doesn't have to be at voluntary OTAs. Certainly given the financial ramifications involved if the hard-hitting defensive back gets hurt heading into the final year of his deal.
Curl has vastly outperformed his seventh-round contract. He has risen to one of the brightest young safeties anywhere in the league and his presence at OTAs is a testament to how much he loves the Washington Commanders.
When asked about the possibility of extending Curl before the season, head coach Ron Rivera stated via USA Today Sports that everything is pretty much on hold until the ownership issue is resolved. Once Josh Harris' group takes over, then football can take priority once again.
"For the most part, everything’s on hold. We’ll let the process as far as the ownership piece continues to unfold and develop. I know about as much as you guys do. As that process goes, we’ll continue to do as much of the football business as usual as we can."
- Ron Rivera via USA Today Sports
Giving Curl a well-deserved payday should be one of the first things on Washington's to-do list once the sale gets formal NFL approval. Anything less would be malpractice, in all honesty.