Trade discussions have placed Cooper Kupp’s time with the Rams in doubt. Kupp shared on X that he had been informed the team intended to move him.
“The organization let me know they’re pursuing a trade immediately and will work with me and my family to find the best place where I can keep competing for championships,” Kupp wrote. “This isn’t a decision I agree with, as I always thought my career would start and finish in LA.
“One lesson I’ve taken from experience is that plenty of things are beyond your control, but how you respond to them is what matters when you look back.”
Since being drafted in the third round by general manager Les Snead in 2017 out of Eastern Washington University, Kupp has played a crucial role in head coach Sean McVay’s offensive scheme.
The 2021 season saw Kupp lead the NFL in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdown catches, achieving what is referred to as the triple crown. His efforts earned him the NFL Offensive Player of the Year award.
Kupp played a key role in the Rams’ Super Bowl win against the Cincinnati Bengals, securing two touchdown catches and taking home Super Bowl MVP honors.
Rams Weigh Financial Considerations
Injuries have impacted Kupp’s performance over the last three seasons. Following a 1-4 start to the current campaign, the Rams explored trade possibilities involving him. He admitted after the season ended that his future with the franchise remained uncertain.
Shortly after the Rams’ playoff loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC divisional round, McVay was asked about Kupp’s status. He expressed admiration for Kupp, describing him as both a talented player and a close friend.
“If there’s one thing I’ve learned from him, it’s that difficult conversations should be handled directly and honestly,” McVay said. “When you care about someone, you owe them the truth, and that’s exactly how he has always treated me. I’ve done the same with him.”
Kupp remains under contract for two more seasons after signing an extension in 2022 that guaranteed him $75 million.
His earnings for the next season include a $12.5 million base salary and a $7.5 million roster bonus, contributing to a $29.8 million cap hit, as reported by Overthecap.com. The site also states that only $5 million of his salary is guaranteed.
Speculation arose that Kupp might stay with the team for the 2025 season if he agreed to restructure his deal, though that scenario now seems unlikely. He has recorded 634 receptions for 7,776 yards and 57 touchdowns in his career.
Kupp Looks Ahead to the Next Chapter
“I’ve cherished the opportunity to represent the L.A. community alongside my teammates, and I want to thank everyone for welcoming my family and making this such a special place for us,” Kupp wrote. “2024 started with one of the best training camps of my career.
Now, preparation for 2025 begins. Feeling healthy, motivated, and ready to keep playing at the highest level for years to come. Love you all. “But I’m coming for it all.”
Reactions from Rams players surfaced on social media. “So I thought it was just the NBA trade season,” receiver Puka Nacua wrote on X.
“My heart can’t take this,” safety Quentin Lake posted, calling Kupp “one of the best teammates I’ve ever been around.” The announcement of Kupp’s situation surfaced just before the Super Bowl’s opening night event in New Orleans.
Eagles receiver A.J. Brown, who became a key offensive weapon in Philadelphia after his trade from the Tennessee Titans in 2022, shared his thoughts on Kupp’s standing in the league.
“He’s still one of the best out there,” Brown said. “I’m sure he’ll handle it well,” he added. “Nobody is ever really ready for a trade, but it’s part of this business, and he’ll find his way.”
