After another solid but ultimately unsatisfactory season, the Los Angeles Rams are faced with a tough decision regarding one of their franchise’s most reliable and successful players. Cooper Kupp, the two-time All-Pro and 2021 Offensive Player of the Year, has been a standout slot receiver in the NFL since joining the league in 2017, drafted in the third round out of Eastern Washington. Despite injuries limiting his play over the last few seasons, including missing five games in 2024, Kupp contributed to the Rams’ fourth NFC West Division title since the team’s return to Los Angeles.
Kupp has been a key figure for the Rams since their relocation to southern California in 2016, marking an important chapter in the team’s history. Since moving to SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, he was the hero of Super Bowl LVI, catching the game-winning touchdown from Matthew Stafford to give the Rams a 23-20 win over the Bengals and their first Super Bowl championship in Los Angeles. Kupp’s impact on the franchise, especially in that iconic moment, solidified his status as a core piece of the Rams’ future.
However, it seems that Kupp’s tenure in Los Angeles may be coming to an end. If the Rams cut him before June 1, they could free up $7.52 million in cap space. Kupp signed a three-year, $80.1 million deal in 2022, but due to the structure of his contract, his 2025 base salary would reach $12.5 million, with just $5 million guaranteed. The Rams may look to part ways with the veteran receiver, and a trade could be in the works.
Cooper Kupp
The Minnesota Vikings have emerged as a potential landing spot for Kupp, especially since he would reunite with head coach Kevin O’Connell. O’Connell, who served as the Rams’ offensive coordinator during Kupp’s record-breaking 2021 season, could help Kupp return to form in Minnesota. Kupp led the league in 2021 with 16 touchdown catches, 145 receptions, 1,947 yards, and an average of 114.5 yards per game.
Another possible destination for Kupp is the New England Patriots. After a challenging few seasons, the Patriots have renewed hope with the hiring of head coach Mike Vrabel and offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. The addition of rookie quarterback Drake Maye, who showed immense promise in his first season, could make Kupp an ideal target to provide stability in New England’s offense. Moreover, Kupp’s former college teammate, Kendrick Bourne, has already reached out to him, suggesting a reunion in New England, with Bourne offering to “take care of” Kupp and ensure plenty of targets.
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