LOS ANGELES -- The Los Angeles Rams are set to part ways with superstar wide receiver Cooper Kupp, as he announced on social media this Monday. Following eight seasons with the team, Kupp revealed he had been informed by the Rams management about their intention to trade him, expressing disappointment at the decision.
"I was informed the team will be seeking a trade immediately and will be working with me and my family to find the right place to continue competing for championships," Kupp stated. He added, "I don't agree with the decision and always believed it was going to begin and end in LA." Kupp's emotional farewell reflects his deep connection with the franchise and the Los Angeles community.
Kupp, 31, is coming off his second consecutive season limited to 12 games, where he managed to secure 67 receptions for 710 yards and six touchdowns. This followed years of struggles with injuries following his exceptional 2021 season, where he led the NFL with 145 receptions for 1,947 yards and won the Super Bowl MVP award.
Throughout his career, Kupp has been integral to head coach Sean McVay's offensive strategies. He first joined the Rams as a third-round draft pick out of Eastern Washington in 2017. Kupp quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier receivers, achieving the receiving triple crown during the 2021 season and finishing with remarkable postseason performances.
Despite his successes, health issues have plagued Kupp over the last few seasons. Since the Rams' Super Bowl victory, he has missed 18 games due to injuries, including significant time due to ankle problems. This has raised concerns about his availability and productivity among team management, influencing their decision to trade him.
The Rams now find themselves at a crossroads. Kupp's contract, which includes hefty salaries of $20 million for 2025 and $19.85 million for 2026, complicates his trade. Teams interested in Kupp will likely be on the hook for this substantial salary if they do not negotiate modifications. ESPN’s Adam Schefter pointed out, "Unless his contract is renegotiated, any team trading for Kupp will inherit his full salary for the upcoming seasons."
Looking at the potential destinations for Kupp, several teams have been identified as possible pursuers. The Cincinnati Bengals could be eyeing Kupp as a replacement for Tee Higgins should he depart via free agency. His pairing with Ja’Marr Chase would create formidable opposition for any defense.
Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys loom as another likely candidate, as they are on the lookout for additional offensive weapons to pair alongside wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. Kupp could seamlessly fill the second receiver spot and add instant value to Dak Prescott’s offense.
Other potential suitors include the Kansas City Chiefs and the New England Patriots, both of which could greatly benefit from Kupp's skills. The Chiefs, always aiming for championship contention, may view Kupp as the key addition necessary to bolster their already potent offense.
The Los Angeles Chargers may also be interested, especially since staying local would appeal to Kupp, who has built rapport in the area during his lengthy career with the Rams.
Kupp's announcement has drawn varying reactions within the Rams’ locker room, with teammate Puka Nacua light-heartedly commenting on the whirlwind of NBA-like trades reshaping the NFL this offseason. Nacua has excelled as Kupp’s protégé and emerged as one of the league's most exciting young receivers, averaging 88.4 receiving yards per game.
After the announcement, Kupp took time to reflect on his time with the Rams. "I have taken so much pride in playing alongside my teammates for the LA community, so thank you for embracing my family and making this such a special place for us," he expressed. Kupp remains optimistic and highly motivated for his future, stating, "2024 began with one of the best training camps of my career. Preparations start now for 2025. Highly motivated, as healthy as ever, and looking forward to playing elite football for years to come. Love you guys... But coming for it all."
The offseason is poised to be transformative for both Kupp and the Rams. Not only does Kupp face the challenge of finding and adapting to a new team, but the Rams must also shift their strategy after losing one of their franchise cornerstones. Regardless of where he lands, Kupp's talent as one of the league’s best receivers remains unquestionable, and many expect to see him make significant contributions to whichever team he joins next.