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Looking back at last week’s launching of the NFL free-agent frenzy, perhaps the most overlooked signing by the Commanders was the re-signing of wide receiver Cam Sims.
Reports are Sims signed for one year at $2.59 million. Guaranteed is $2 million with a $1 million base salary and a signing bonus of $1.25 million. Included is a roster bonus of $150,000 and a workout bonus of $190,000. Thus, Sims will be a 2022 cap hit for $2.5 million.
Sims is arguably the team’s fifth receiver that I keep thinking each preseason is going to bust out and have his biggest year, but it has not yet occurred. But that is not to say Sims is not a value to possess. Sims has physical gifts at 6-foot-five and 220 pounds. Sims plays special teams and has made some big catches in his career.
Undrafted out of Alabama, Sims impressed in preseason games, displaying a physical agility catching passes from the likes of Colt McCoy. But in the 2018 opener, he suffered a badly sprained ankle and was put on IR. In 2019, again, only one catch and it seemed he was only another one of those guys who dazzles with plays in preseason. For some of you, Marko Mitchell might come to mind.
It is hard to believe Sims still only just turned 26 in January. He has gained experience and is now entering his prime years. His 32 receptions in 2020 including big games in a win against Pittsburgh and loss to the NY Giants certainly elevated his confidence that he could experience more success in the NFL.
Perhaps it will be Carson Wentz who utilizes the size advantages that Sims can generate in the red zone. Alex Smith and Ryan Fitzpatrick both were vocal about the physical ability of Cam Sims. He can be a more productive target but look for Sims to continue to be of value on special teams as well.