Cooper Kupp, the star wide receiver for the Los Angeles Rams, announced on February 4, 2025, that the team is seeking to trade him. Kupp, who disagreed with the decision, shared that he was informed the Rams would work with him and his family to find the right destination where he can continue competing for championships.
While he had always believed his career would start and end in Los Angeles, Kupp acknowledged that circumstances beyond his control had led to this moment. Despite the disappointment, he emphasized how important it is to respond to such situations and remain motivated.
Contract Details and Trade Complications
Kupp, who will turn 32 in June, is set to earn $20 million in 2025, which includes a $7.5 million roster bonus and a $12.5 million base salary. However, any team acquiring Kupp would be responsible for this full amount unless there is a renegotiation of his contract.
This financial aspect adds complexity to a potential trade, as the acquiring team would need to manage these significant cap hits for 2025 and 2026. Moving Kupp would mark the end of a significant era for the Rams, considering his long tenure with the team since 2017.
Kupp’s career with the Rams has been marked by impressive achievements, including over 600 receptions, 7,776 receiving yards, and 57 touchdown catches. His standout season came in 2021 when he won the NFL Offensive Player of the Year award and was named Super Bowl MVP after helping the Rams capture the Lombardi Trophy.
This triple-crown campaign, where Kupp posted 1,947 yards, 16 touchdowns, and 145 catches, solidified his place as one of the league’s top receivers. However, Kupp’s performance has been affected by injuries in recent seasons, limiting his time on the field.
Injury Struggles and Declining Performance
In the last few years, Kupp has struggled with injuries, including a high ankle sprain in 2024 that affected his play despite his return. The emergence of fellow receiver Puka Nacua further complicated Kupp’s role, and he experienced a rough patch to close the season.
His performance in the final stretch of 2024 was underwhelming, with low-yardage games and even a zero-reception performance against the San Francisco 49ers. This decline raised questions about Kupp’s future in Los Angeles, especially as trade rumors circulated during a challenging start to the season.
Despite his injury concerns, Kupp remains a highly productive player when healthy, recording over 700 receiving yards and at least five touchdowns in each of the past three seasons. As he prepares for a potential trade, Kupp remains motivated and optimistic about his future.
While he may have to adjust to a new quarterback and team environment, his skill set and determination make him a valuable asset to any franchise aiming for a championship. Kupp is looking forward to continuing his elite level of play and contributing to a new team’s success.