TIM Settle

Career StatsC+

Year	Team	GP	Sacks	Tkl	TFL
Career		124	15.0	130	23
2025		12	1.0	15	3.5
2024		17	5.0	31	7.5
2023		17	1.0

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

This signing grades out as a significant overpay for the Washington Commanders — the team is paying more than the on-field production currently warrants. TIM's on-field performance ranks in the middle of the pack among NFL DTs, grading him as a serviceable starter at the position. His $7.8M average annual value ranks as minimum-level money for the DT market. The concern here is the gap between production and cost — serviceable starter output at minimum-level money means the team is paying a premium above the player's on-field value. TIM is squarely in his prime, which adds to the deal's upside — the team should get multiple productive seasons out of this contract. The 3-year, $23.5M contract with $12.0M guaranteed (51%) represents a moderate investment with room to exit if needed.

Contracts in the Same Value Band

Other same-position deals the Contract Value Index also places in the D band — a quick read on where TIM's contract sits relative to comparable money.

Performance Analysis

Tim Settle is an eight-year Washington Commanders veteran who has anchored the interior defensive line through 124 career games. The 29-year-old nose tackle operates as a run-stuffing anchor rather than a pass-rush threat, a defined role he has maintained throughout his tenure. His current C+ grade reflects a player in decline, with 2025 performance (D) marking a concerning drop from a B- showing in 2024. Settle's tackle production has slipped below league average at 1.25 per game versus the NFL standard of 1.82, indicating reduced field impact and assignment consistency. His sack rate of 0.08 per game trails the 0.14 average significantly, while his 0.08 QB hits per game sits well below the 0.29 benchmark—suggesting limited pressure generation on opposing quarterbacks. However, he maintains average tackling for loss at 0.29 per game, one of few metrics where he holds parity with NFL standards, preserving some interior disruption value. The veteran's trajectory warrants monitoring heading into 2026. Settle's body of work demonstrates competence in a depth role, but the sustained decline across multiple seasons suggests age-related regression rather than temporary fluctuation. Washington must evaluate whether he fits their defensive line rotation going forward or if younger, more explosive interior options provide better value in both current play and future flexibility. His veteran presence and leadership may retain utility, but statistical performance suggests a meaningful diminishment of his on-field impact.

How TIM Compares at the Position

TIM Settle ranks 77th of 217 graded defensive tackles by performance. That slots TIM between Bill Norton (C+) just ahead and Tim Settle Jr. (C+) just behind.

Current Sentiment

The Washington Commanders' reunion with Tim Settle has generated cautiously optimistic reactions across the fanbase and media, earning a **B-** sentiment grade from analysts. Multiple outlets have framed this three-year, $25.5M deal as a smart "homecoming" move that prioritizes roster continuity over flashy signings, with fans expressing genuine excitement about bringing back a popular locker room presence. The media narrative consistently positions Settle as a solid rotational starter rather than a defensive anchor, which has tempered expectations while maintaining positive sentiment around the familiarity factor. Skeptical voices have questioned whether Settle has truly developed into an every-down starter since his departure, but the modest contract structure has largely silenced concerns about overpaying for nostalgia. Overall, this signing is being perceived as a low-risk, moderate-reward move that addresses depth needs without breaking the bank or dramatically shifting championship expectations.