The Los Angeles Rams have let go of star wide receiver Cooper Kupp after they were unable to find a trade partner. The move brings an end to Kupp’s eight-year stay with the team, in which he received awards such as the 2021 NFL Offensive Player of the Year and Super Bowl LVI MVP.
Financial Implications
The Rams tagged Kupp as a post-June 1 cut, holding his $29.78 million cap charge through June 1. After June 1, the team will have dead cap charges of $14.78 million in 2025 and $7.48 million in 2026 while gaining $15 million in cap space for next season.
Kupp’s Impact and Recent Performance
Selected in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Kupp quickly established himself as the foundation of the Rams’ offense. His 2021 season was a record-breaking one in which he paced the league in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns, claiming the much-desired “Triple Crown” for wide receivers. In the same season, he helped guide the Rams to victory in Super Bowl LVI, taking home the game’s MVP award.
But the last three seasons have been tainted by injury. Kupp got hurt in Week 2 of 2024 on an ankle and missed four weeks. He returned in Week 8 but was kept without a catch in Week 15, which was only the third time in his career he was without a catch. He had 67 receptions for 710 yards and six touchdowns in the 2024 season.
Rams’ Offensive Outlook
The signing of Kupp marks a change in the Rams’ offense. The Rams have strengthened their receiving corps by adding veteran wide receiver Davante Adams, a three-time first-team All-Pro, to pair with up-and-coming stars such as Puka Nacua. The signing is designed to keep the dynamic passing attack going in the next season.
Kupp’s Future Prospects
Kupp, 31, goes into free agency with a decorated resume but recent injury issues. Teams with plenty of cap space and a desire for a veteran receiver, including the Dallas Cowboys and Baltimore Ravens, are possible destinations. His experience and leadership could be an instant asset to teams looking to make a run at the playoffs.
The departure of Cooper Kupp puts an end to a glorious chapter in Rams history. His contributions to the team’s victory, particularly during the 2021 Super Bowl quest, have solidified his place among the all-time greats of the franchise. As Kupp and the Rams set off into new directions, the NFL world will watch with anticipation to see what the future holds for the iconic wide receiver.
