Cooper Kupp’s Upcoming Decision: Will the Patriots Secure the Star WR?

MARCH 14: Confusion around Cooper Kupp continues. Despite earlier reports that linked him to the Jaguars, he is not in the mix, according to Bleacher Report’s Jordan Schultz.

MARCH 13: Kupp, now a free agent after being cut by the Rams, isn’t expected to take long finding a new team. He’s a former triple-crown winner, and it seems several teams are eyeing him.

At least five teams are reportedly interested in Kupp, as noted by Fox Sports’ Jordan Schultz. This is an increase from just three teams earlier in the week. The New England Patriots appear to be in the running, reaching out to Kupp, according to reports from Masslive.com and the Boston Sports Journal.

The AFC South seems to have its eyes on Kupp too. The Jacksonville Jaguars and Houston Texans are mentioned as potential destinations, along with the Seahawks. Kupp is from Yakima, Washington, and given the Seahawks’ recent roster shake-ups, they might be looking for a wide receiver like him.

As for salary, discussions suggest Kupp could command around $12 million per year. Recent contracts around the league show that teams are ready to pay for talent, but Kupp’s history of injuries—having missed 18 games since winning the Super Bowl MVP—might be a concern for some teams.

The Patriots, who have struggled to attract big-name receivers recently, could reconsider their interest if Kupp’s asking price seems too high. They missed out on Calvin Ridley last year and faced challenges securing other quality receivers in the trade market.

Interestingly, new patterns are emerging in the free agency landscape. The Patriots recently lost out on Chris Godwin, who re-signed with the Buccaneers right at the start of free-agency talks. This has narrowed their options for weapons to support quarterback Drake Maye. They still have some older, experienced choices like Stefon Diggs and Amari Cooper, but these players come with their own risks, especially as they age.

For the Jaguars, the new head coach Liam Coen knows Kupp well from their time together with the Rams. This connection could play a significant role in their efforts to bring him on board, especially after trading away Christian Kirk. The Texans also have a connection through their new offensive coordinator, Nick Caley, who has previous experience with Kupp.

In a broader context, teams are increasingly looking for reliable receivers to help young quarterbacks develop, as the NFL continues to evolve. The transition to new offensive schemes and players adapting to different teams presents both challenges and opportunities.

Kupp’s next move is much anticipated, but the question remains—will he go back to his roots with the Seahawks or join a rebuilding team like the Jaguars or Texans? Only time will tell, and fans are keenly watching the developments.

For the latest on Kupp and NFL free agency news, check sources like Bleacher Report and Pro Football Rumors.

Source link

cooper kupp,houston texans,jacksonville jaguars,new england patriots,seattle seahawks