If you just took one glance at Washington safety Landon Collins’ contract, you’d probably think he was an elite safety.

Well, things haven’t quite worked out that way for Collins in his two years in Washington. He could certainly almost receive a pass for the 2019 season with the prior regime not really knowing how to employ any of the defense’s top players.

In 2020, Collins struggled a bit early in the season — specifically in coverage. But, with each passing week, he appeared to get more comfortable until he was lost for the season in Week 7. It was a shame as Collins was finally with a defensive coaching staff who knew how to use him.

His absence opened the door for rookie Kamren Curl, who excelled in 2020. Now, Washington will need to be creative in 2021 for both players to be on the field simultaneously since each is best suited to play strong safety.

ESPN recently continued its list of ranking the top 10 players at every position with safeties up next.

Did either of Washington’s safeties make the list?

No, however, Collins was one of six players who also received votes. Here is what one AFC coach said about Collins:

Still can be productive, and he will be good for [Washington’s] defense. Not sure he’s as good as Budda Baker and Jamal Adams in that realm of elite line-of-scrimmage players.

I believe too many people are writing off Collins — and it’s a mistake. He can still play. His ability to play strong safety and occasionally play in the box as a linebacker could be a missing ingredient for the WFT defense in 2021.

Remember, Collins is still just 27 years old.