Commanders safety Kam Curl cleared to return

Kam Curl’s return would be a boost to Washington’s struggling defense.

The Washington Commanders’ secondary could receive a big boost Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles. John Keim of ESPN reported Tuesday that safety Kam Curl was cleared to return.

Curl, who injured his thumb in the second preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs, underwent surgery and was in a cast. He missed the first two games of the 2022 season.

Now, according to Keim, he is being fitted for a splint.

It’s still no guarantee Curl plays Sunday, but the Commanders felt good about Curl’s return at one point last week, so a return in Week 3 seems reasonable.

In his absence, Darrick Forrest has been outstanding. Forrest is arguably Washington’s top defensive back through the first two games and will find a role on the field when Curl returns. Forrest’s play allows the Commanders to employ Curl more in the box if they choose.

The first injury report of Week 3 comes out on Wednesday, and Curl’s status is one to follow.