BREAKING: Rams Lands BIG News On Cooper Kupp With Shocking Trade
Cooper Kupp revealed that the Los Angeles Rams intended to trade him during the 2025 offseason, though not everyone in the organization supported the decision. The reason for this hesitation is becoming more apparent—his trade market has been relatively quiet.
With additional trade candidates emerging, along with the approaching free agency and draft, the Rams may need to reconsider their approach regarding Kupp.
“It seems more likely than not that this is headed for a release,” NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport said on The Insiders on March 6. “Someone could trade for him—it could literally happen as I’m talking—but that’s what it seems.”
Rapoport added, “Kupp isn’t going to make $20 million anyway, so being a free agent wouldn’t be a bad outcome. He’s a veteran receiver with plenty left in the tank, and he wouldn’t be too expensive. He’s already made money and won at the highest level, so he could be a strong free-agent acquisition. But I’d be surprised if this results in a trade.”
Kupp is entering the second year of a three-year, $80.1 million contract, with a $27.8 million cap hit for 2025—$7.8 million of which comes from a roster bonus. The Rams currently project to have $51.7 million in cap space, though that number will likely shift once Matthew Stafford’s contract adjustments are finalized.
Kupp has expressed a preference to be traded to a competitive team, and if the cost to acquire him is reduced, he could become a more attractive option for potential suitors.
Releasing Cooper Kupp Could Be Rams’ Best Option
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport noted that both the Rams and Cooper Kupp have been transparent about his availability for a trade. He suggested that the Rams could absorb part of Kupp’s salary to facilitate a deal but questioned whether teams would still be interested.
“For the Rams, the question becomes whether paying $7.5 million is worth the draft pick they’d receive in a trade,” Rapoport said.
Rams general manager Les Snead indicated that Kupp’s return is unlikely.
“There’s a scenario where he returns,” Snead said on March 5. “But when you look at probabilities, that would be the least likely. I don’t want to say ‘no’ today and then he’s back next week, but we’re actively working to find a new team and chapter for both Cooper and us.”
Head coach Sean McVay echoed a similar stance, stating on March 3, “I would never speak in absolutes, but we’ll take it one day at a time and see how things unfold.”
Kupp has earned $93.5 million over his career, and if he reaches free agency, he’s expected to draw significant interest. Spotrac projects he could sign a two-year, $21.9 million deal—an annual salary of roughly $11 million, less than half of his current rate.
During his time with the Rams, Kupp has achieved numerous accolades, including All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors, Offensive Player of the Year, a receiving triple crown, and a Super Bowl MVP. Despite turning 32 in June, he remains a productive receiver, finishing the 2024 season with 67 catches for 710 yards and six touchdowns while delivering key playoff performances. His next team will be getting a highly motivated player.