Wide receiver Cooper Kupp was on the trading block, but the Los Angeles Rams plan has changed. General manager Les Snead is planning to release the 2021 NFL Offensive Player of the Year on Wednesday at the start of the new league year if the Rams can’t find a trade partner, per ESPN.
The motivation for the Rams to dump Kupp and save $7.52 million in cap space likely increased after they signed three-time first-team All-Pro wideout Davante Adams to a two-year, $44 million contract with $26 million guaranteed on Sunday.
Kupp, who will turn 32 years old on June 15, initially broke the news via social media that he was on the block on Feb. 4. In his post, Kupp shared that while he doesn’t agree with the Rams’ decision to move on from him, he looks back on his time with the franchise with “so much pride.” Kupp also made it clear that he is highly motivated to resume his career elsewhere.
“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. I don’t agree with the decision and always believed it was going to begin and end in LA. Still, if there’s one thing that I have learned over the years: there are so many things that are out of your control, but it is how you respond to these things that you will look back on and remember. I’ve 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. 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.”
Despite his recent injury issues, expect several teams to be interested in bidding for Kupp’s services, especially those that could use a sure-handed veteran wideout with playoff experience. Here’s a look at five teams who might be interested in Kupp’s services:
Dallas Cowboys
Dallas needs some reinforcements around CeeDee Lamb, especially with Brandin Cooks hitting the open market. Kupp’s addition would free things up for Lamb while also giving Dak Prescott another established weapon to throw to.
Seattle Seahawks
The Seattle Seahawks desperately need help at the wide receiver position after cutting Tyler Lockett and trading DK Metcalf to the Pittsburgh Steelers within the past week.
Baltimore Ravens
Baltimore isn’t afraid to go after big names in free agency. Just a year ago, the Ravens signed Derrick Henry to a two-year deal.
Denver Broncos
Bo Nix thrived last year despite not having proven receiving options.
Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers could use another receiver to complement their lineup.
