As the NFL‘s new league year begins, a Super Bowl MVP has sparked interest from several teams, with the New England Patriots and Dallas Cowboys emerging as potential suitors.
Cooper Kupp is on the verge of becoming a free agent. The Los Angeles Rams have been attempting to trade the 2021 Offensive Player of the Year, but with no deal materializing, Kupp’s release appears imminent.
Will the Big-Spending Patriots Sign Cooper Kupp?
Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald suggests that the Patriots have a legitimate chance of signing the Pro Bowl wideout. Callahan points out that Kupp is “curious” about the prospect of playing in New England, which could be a key factor in his decision-making process.
Kupp’s connection to New England includes his college teammate Kendrick Bourne and Patriots tight ends coach Thomas Brown, who previously coached for the Rams.
In a post on X, Callahan wrote, “In less then 24 hours, Cooper Kupp could hit the open market. Obviously, the #Patriots should pursue him. But more than that, I think they’d have a real shot at signing him.”
In less then 24 hours, Cooper Kupp could hit the open market. Obviously, the #Patriots should pursue him.
But more than that, I think they'd have a real shot at signing him. Here's why: https://t.co/XtmmhoTA3Z pic.twitter.com/JmSVG6WdS0
— Andrew Callahan (@_AndrewCallahan) March 11, 2025
In his article for the Boston Herald, Callahan also writes, “Kupp fulfills the mandate (head coach Mike) Vrabel has given his front office for free-agent acquisitions. Incoming players must fit his culture, be tough-minded, and play with maximum effort and a fierce play demeanor.
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“Around the league, Kupp is renowned for his work ethic and toughness. He’s also a five-time team captain.”
Callahan added, “Even over a dozen games (in 2024), when Kupp totaled 67 catches for 710 yards and six touchdowns, he still would have led the Patriots in all three categories.”
Will the Free Agent-Averse Dallas Cowboys Sign Kupp?
In his post on X, Benjamin Allbright responded to a user’s tweet suggesting that Dallas is the frontrunner to land Kupp, writing, “You ask me this every day, buddy. I had originally thought the Jags would be heavily involved there. I don’t know about ‘front-runner.’ Dallas is certainly very in the mix.”
You ask me this every day, buddy. I had originally thought the jags would be heavily involved there. I don’t know about “front runner.”
Dallas is certainly very in the mix. https://t.co/5qbTytpjTt
— Benjamin Allbright (@AllbrightNFL) March 12, 2025
While Allbright doesn’t consider Dallas the lead contender, the Cowboys’ interest suggests they see Kupp as a replacement for Brandin Cooks and a complement to CeeDee Lamb.
Kupp’s contract has been a major hurdle in trade negotiations. His cap hit of nearly $30 million for the 2025 season has deterred potential trade partners. However, as a free agent, Kupp will have more flexibility in negotiating a deal that suits all parties.
Other Suitors for Kupp?
Dianna Russini of The Athletic reported that new Jacksonville Jaguars general manager, James Gladstone was spotted with Kupp in Los Angeles.
The Jaguars recently cut Devin Duvernay and Josh Reynolds, leaving ample amount of room next to Brian Thomas Jr. and Parker Washington in Jacksonville’s wide receiver room.
Kupp, while on the decline of his career, would easily slot in as the WR2 in Duval County and can potentially be a mentor for the aforementioned Washington, who the Jags see a lot of potential in.
Additionally, the Seattle Seahawks are now in desperate need of a starting wide receiver with new QB Sam Darnold. After trading DK Metcalf to the Steelers and releasing longtime veteran Tyler Lockett, the Hawks can’t solely rely on Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
Seattle did sign Marquez Valdes-Scantling to a one-year deal to help Seattle’s depth, but there are ties to Kupp and the Pacific Northwest. Kupp grew up in Yakima, WA; a two hour drive from Seattle. He also played in college for Eastern Washington.