Reports: Aaron Curry on the trading block

According to multiple reports, current Seattle Seahawks linebacker, Aaron Curry is on the trading block. Even more interesting, according to the reports I have read the Carolina Panthers are listed as a possible suitor for the former Wake Forest Demon Deacon standout.

Aaron Curry blasted onto the ACC scene when he started 10 of 11 games and was named to the Freshman All-American Second Team and All-ACC Freshman team. His breakout year occurred in 2007 where he recorded nearly 100 tackles. Curry thought about leaving school early to enter the 2008 NFL Draft, but eventually decided to stay in school.

His senior year did not disappoint Curry fans. He recorded 105 tackles, 16 of which were for a loss. His efforts were good enough to land him on the ESPN, Sporting News, and Sports Illustrated All American Team. He was also honored as the nation’s top linebacker as the Butkus Award recipient.

Curry’s above average speed and nose for the ball garnered him as being the 2009 NFL Draft’s “Safest Pick”. Some believed that Curry was good enough to be the 1st overall pick in the draft, but that did not come to fruition. Curry was selected by the Seattle Seahawks 4th overall and eventually signed a massive contract that would pay him $60 million over six years.

In his 2009 rookie season, Curry collected a total of 61 tackles, 2 sacks, and 6 defended passes. He upped his tackle numbers in 2010 to 73 and his sack number to 3 1/2. Many in NFL circles have since labeled Curry as a bust. But is he a bust because of disappointing play or is it because of his massive contract?

Before the 2011 season, Curry gave up $5 million in guaranteed money. Since then he has been benched by the Seahawks prompting speculation that Curry could be had for the right price.

What is the right price? I would venture to guess Curry could easily be had for a 5th round pick, although I would not be surprised if he was traded for a 6th or 7th.

Considering the blows the Panthers have suffered at the linebacker position, losing both Thomas Davis and Jon Beason to season ending injuries, acquiring Curry could be a risk worth taking. There is no denying his potential and I believe he would benefit more in Sean McDermott’s aggressive blitzing system than he does from Seattle’s base cover formations.

Cat Crave will keep you updated on further developments as they occur.