The end of an era appears to be coming for the Los Angeles Rams as they appear set on parting ways with star wideout Cooper Kupp.
Kupp has been one of the faces of the Rams franchise since he was drafted in 2017, serving as a key piece and target in head coach Sean McVay’s offense. Kupp peaked in the 2021 season when he became a triple crown winner and went on to win Super Bowl MVP, leading Los Angeles to a comeback victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in Super Bowl LVI.
Unfortunately for Kupp, his career took a turn from that point forward as he struggled with several ankle injuries. Although Kupp was able to rehab and come back healthy entering 2024, his involvement in the offense dwindled as McVay and Matthew Stafford looked to utilize Puka Nacua more.
Kupp said he and the team were working together to find a trade partner, but it appears the Rams are set on releasing him if they can’t find a suitable deal, via Adam Schefter of ESPN:
“The Los Angeles Rams plan to release wide receiver Cooper Kupp when the NFL’s new season starts March 12 if they are unable to find a trade partner, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter Monday.”
Given Kupp’s age, injury history and contract, it makes sense why Los Angeles is deciding to move on from him. Kupp signed a three-year, $80 million extension following his historic 2021 season and was set to make $29.8 million in 2025 and $27.3 million in 2026. However, the veteran only has $5 million in guaranteed salary next season, so cutting him know lessens the cap hit against the books.
The Rams have not been afraid to part with some of their stars, and releasing Kupp would signal a shift toward the younger players on the roster. Matthew Stafford is back with the team on a one-year deal, but it seems that the two sides will take contract negotiations year by year. He could be the next star on the way out, though for now the team is committed to the current roster.
It’s going to sting once Kupp is officially gone because of what he’s meant to the organization, but other teams would be wise to check in as he can still contribute to winning football.
Sean McVay discusses impact Cooper Kupp had on him
Head coach Sean McVay and Cooper Kupp started together with the Los Angeles Rams and the former had nothing but good things to say about the latter when discussing the impact he had on him.
