The Los Angeles Rams are set to part ways with wide receiver Cooper Kupp if they can’t find a trade before the new NFL season begins on March 12. This plan follows the recent signing of star wide receiver Davante Adams to a two-year deal, marking a significant shift for the team.
Just a few weeks ago, Kupp took to social media to share that the Rams were looking to trade him after his eight-season tenure with the team. He expressed disappointment at the decision. Kupp, who earned the Super Bowl MVP title in 2022, remarked, “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’s journey with the Rams has been impressive. After a standout 2021 season where he led the NFL in receptions, yards, and touchdowns, he signed a three-year extension worth $80.1 million. The first year of that contract will impact the salary cap significantly, costing the Rams $29.8 million next season and $27.3 million in 2026.
Financially, Kupp’s guaranteed salary next year is only $5 million, and he has no guaranteed money left in the final year of his contract. If the Rams execute a trade classified post-June 1, they could save $20 million against the 2025 salary cap. On the other hand, cutting Kupp this offseason would result in $15 million in savings but leave the team with a $22.2 million dead money hit if they don’t structure the release properly.
Drafted in the third round out of Eastern Washington in 2017 after the Rams hired Sean McVay, Kupp has been central to the team’s offense. When healthy, he has caught 634 passes for 7,776 yards and 57 touchdowns, showcasing his talent and contribution to the Rams.
