Cooper Kupp Faces Uncertain Future with Rams Amidst Trade Rumors and Salary Cap Pressures
January 23, 2025The Cincinnati Bengals may lose Tee Higgins to free agency, making Kupp an attractive option to complement Ja'Marr Chase, especially given his connection with head coach Zac Taylor.
The Los Angeles Chargers would also be a strong fit for Kupp, enhancing their receiving corps and fitting well into offensive coordinator Greg Roman's system.
As of January 2025, Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp is reflecting on his future after a divisional-round loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, expressing a desire to stay with the Rams.
Kupp, who will turn 32 in June 2025, has faced an injury-plagued season, averaging only 59.2 receiving yards per game, the lowest since his rookie year in 2017.
Prior to the November 2024 trade deadline, the Rams considered trading Kupp for a second-round pick and are expected to revisit trade discussions this offseason due to salary cap pressures.
If the Rams decide to cut Kupp before June 1, they would incur $22.3 million in dead money, making a trade more likely than a release.
Several teams are potential trade partners for Kupp, each with their own needs and circumstances.
The Pittsburgh Steelers might consider trading young receiver George Pickens for Kupp, especially amidst concerns regarding Pickens' behavior and the team's need for a veteran presence.
The Dallas Cowboys could benefit from Kupp's addition, especially with Brandin Cooks' contract voiding in March, as they look to bolster their pass-heavy offense led by Dak Prescott.
The Houston Texans are in need of a reliable target for quarterback C.J. Stroud, particularly given the uncertainties surrounding their current receiving options.
If Chris Godwin leaves the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in free agency, Kupp could serve as a suitable replacement, reuniting with offensive coordinator Liam Coen, who previously coached him at the Rams.
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