Kevin Curtis: Professional NFL Career and Key Highlights
In the competitive landscape of the NFL, few journeys are as illustrative of perseverance as that of Kevin Curtis. Entering the league as an undrafted free agent, Curtis transformed himself from a special teams contributor into a reliable wide receiver capable of delivering game-changing plays on the biggest stages of professional football.
Key Facts
- Draft Status: Undrafted free agent (2003).
- Primary Teams: Philadelphia Eagles, New England Patriots, and Minnesota Vikings.
- Career Peak: Recorded 136 receptions and 1,879 yards with the Eagles.
- Notable Achievement: Won an ESPY Award for Best Play for a game-winning touchdown with the Vikings.
- Physical Profile: 5 ft 11 in height and 172 lb weight.
Physical Profile and Measurables
Before establishing his professional presence, Curtis' athletic capabilities were documented during his Pro Day, the annual event where college prospects perform drills for NFL scouts to verify their physical metrics.
| Metric | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 5 ft 11 in (1.80 m) |
| Weight | 172 lb (78 kg) |
| 40-yard dash | 4.6 s |
| Vertical jump | 33.5 in (0.85 m) |
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The Philadelphia Eagles Era
Curtis began his career in 2003 after going undrafted, signing with the Philadelphia Eagles. His rookie season was primarily spent on special teams—the phase of the game involving punts, kickoffs, and returns. However, by his second year, he successfully integrated into the receivers rotation.
A defining moment of his early career occurred during Super Bowl XXXIX. Curtis caught a 30-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter, marking his first career touchdown reception and bringing the Eagles within a field goal of the lead. Despite this effort, the Eagles ultimately lost the game 24–21.
Over six seasons in Philadelphia, Curtis appeared in 99 games, including 24 starts across the regular season and playoffs. He finished his tenure with the Eagles recording 136 receptions for 1,879 yards and eight touchdowns.
Transitions: New England and Minnesota
On March 5, 2009, the New England Patriots acquired Curtis and a 2010 seventh-round draft pick in exchange for a 2009 fifth-round pick. This move was of particular interest as Coach Bill Belichick had considered drafting Curtis back in 2003. Curtis had previously faced the Patriots in both the Super Bowl and a 2007 matchup where the Eagles nearly upset the Patriots' undefeated streak. However, his time in New England was short-lived, as he was released during final cuts on September 5.
Shortly after, on September 10, 2009, Curtis signed with the Minnesota Vikings. This move reunited him with Coach Brad Childress, who had previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles.
The Game-Winning Catch
Curtis made an immediate and dramatic impact in his Vikings debut on September 27, 2009. With only two seconds remaining in the game, he caught a contested 32-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Brett Favre while falling out of the back of the end zone. This play secured a 27–24 come-from-behind victory over the San Francisco 49ers.
This catch was Curtis' first reception with the team and earned both him and Brett Favre an ESPY Award for Best Play. Following this success, he was re-signed to a one-year contract on February 28, 2010.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How did Kevin Curtis enter the NFL?
Kevin Curtis entered the league as an undrafted free agent in 2003, signing with the Philadelphia Eagles.
What were Curtis' career statistics with the Philadelphia Eagles?
During his six seasons with the Eagles, he played 99 games (24 starts) and recorded 136 receptions for 1,879 yards and eight touchdowns.
Which play earned Kevin Curtis an ESPY Award?
He won the ESPY Award for Best Play for catching a 32-yard game-winning touchdown pass from Brett Favre against the San Francisco 49ers in 2009.
Who was the coach that reunited with Curtis in Minnesota?
Brad Childress, who had previously been the offensive coordinator for the Eagles, was the coach who brought Curtis to the Minnesota Vikings.
What was Kevin Curtis' role during his rookie season?
During his first year with the Philadelphia Eagles, Curtis was limited mostly to playing on special teams.