Cooper Kupp’s Future with the Rams: A Turning Point in Los Angeles
In a surprising turn of events, the Los Angeles Rams are reportedly planning to release wide receiver Cooper Kupp at the start of the new NFL season on March 12, unless they can find a trade partner. This news, shared by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, has sent shockwaves through the NFL community, as Kupp has been a cornerstone of the Rams’ offense for years.
The announcement comes hot on the heels of the Rams’ decision to sign six-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Davante Adams to a two-year deal. With Adams joining the team, it seems the Rams are ready to move on from Kupp, a decision that has left many fans and analysts scratching their heads.
Adding to the drama, Kupp himself took to social media in early February to express his discontent with the Rams’ decision to seek a trade for him. “I was informed that 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, who was named Super Bowl 56 MVP, stated at the time.
It’s hard to forget Kupp’s record-breaking 2021 season, during which he led the NFL in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns. Following that stellar performance, he signed a three-year contract extension worth $80.1 million. However, the financial implications of keeping Kupp on the roster seem to be a significant factor in the Rams’ decision-making process.
- Kupp’s contract is scheduled to count $29.8 million against the cap next season and $27.3 million in 2026.
- His guaranteed salary next season is only $5 million, with no guaranteed money in the final year of the contract in 2026.
- If the Rams trade Kupp in a deal designated post-June 1, they will save $20 million toward their 2025 salary cap.
- If the Rams cut Kupp this offseason, they will save $15 million in cash and $7.52 million against the salary cap.
- Releasing him without a post-June 1 designation would result in $22.2 million in dead money due to the remaining prorated portions of his signing bonus and $5 million of his roster bonus.
Despite the financial considerations, Kupp has been a prolific receiver whenever healthy for the Rams. Drafted in the third round out of Eastern Washington, he quickly became a centerpiece of head coach Sean McVay’s offensive game plans. Over his career with the Rams, Kupp has caught 634 passes for 7,776 yards and 57 touchdowns, making him one of the most reliable targets in the league.
As the Rams prepare to potentially part ways with Kupp, fans are left to wonder what the future holds for both the player and the team. Will Kupp find a new home where he can continue to compete for championships, or will the Rams find a way to keep him in Los Angeles? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the NFL offseason just got a lot more interesting.
ESPN’s Sarah Barshop and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Originally Written by: ESPN.com
