The Los Angeles Rams have called multiple teams to find out if they would be interested in trading for wide receiver Cooper Kupp, according to sources who spoke to The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, Michael Silver and Jourdan Rodrigue. The Rams are open to trading Kupp and are looking for a 2025 second-round pick in any potential deal. However, sources claim LA would be willing to take on some of the former Super Bowl MVP’s salary.
Are the Los Angeles Rams Moving On From a Super Bowl Hero?
Kupp injured his ankle in the Week 2 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals and was unable to return to the game. A few days later, head coach Sean McVay said the team would not be putting Kupp on the injured reserve. While he was unable to go for the LA’s game against the Raiders in Week 7, McVay said that he expects Kupp to play against the Minnesota Vikings.
This report comes on the same day that wide receiver Puka Nacua was designated to return from the injured reserve. That designation opens a 21-day window for the Rams to determine if they will activate Nacua off of injured reserve.
Would trading Kupp be the right decision?
Kupp is getting up there in age, but he is still an important part of the Rams offense. After all, he received 27 targets through six quarters in 2024. He was also able to catch 18 of those targets for 147 yards and a touchdown. However, the recent report shows that McVay believes he can get the same level of production from Nacua once he is fully healthy.
At the same time, the Rams need to start planning for the future. Matthew Stafford will be turning 37 in February, so the Rams’ Super Bowl window may already be slowly closing. In all likelihood, they have another two years left to compete for a championship. However, their plans could change depending upon how the next few weeks go.
Aside from the upcoming Thursday night matchup, the Rams have a game against Seattle before the deadline. Realistically, McVay’s group would need to win both to salvage the season. Even with a split, it’s tough to make the playoffs after starting 3-6.
With that being said, LA has not been blowing people out of the water without their top two receivers. Getting Nacua back will certainly help jump-start things but at 2-5, it may be time to call it on the 2024-25 Rams season. If LA does end up trading Kupp this year, then they clearly don’t expect to be contending for a Super Bowl title come February 2025.
For 2024-25, trading Kupp would be a terrible decision, but it’s probably a smart move long-term. Trading him opens the door to increase the number of draft picks, even if it means eating part of Kupp’s salary this season. The Rams are in a tough spot but may elect to see how these next two games go.
Main Photo Courtesy of Matt Kartozian – Imagn Images
