Cooper Kupp is starting a new chapter in his career after a storied run with the Los Angeles Rams. The triple crown winner signed a three-year, $45 million contract with the Seattle Seahawks, marking more than just a fresh start for the veteran receiver.
Cooper Kupp Reveals Reason Behind Signing With Seahawks
All good things come to an end, and since his incredible 2021 season — when he won the receiving triple crown and was named Offensive Player of the Year after posting 1,947 yards and 16 touchdowns on 145 receptions — injuries have plagued Kupp.
He helped lead the Rams to a championship, earning Super Bowl MVP honors while averaging 119.5 receiving yards across four playoff games. However, injuries have cost Kupp 17 games over the last three seasons, and his combined stats from 2022-24 barely surpass his 2021 total, with only 56 more catches, 312 more yards, and one extra touchdown.
After 634 receptions, 57 receiving touchdowns (third-most in Rams history), and 7,776 receiving yards (fourth-most in franchise history), Kupp leaves Los Angeles with a strong legacy. Now, he returns to his home state.
Kupp grew up in Yakima, Washington, about two hours from Seattle. At Eastern Washington University, he set FCS records with 428 receptions, 6,464 receiving yards, and 73 touchdowns.
As hinted in his official announcement, Kupp’s love for Washington played a role in his decision to sign with the Seahawks. It’s not just a second chance in the NFL — it’s also a homecoming for the NFC West standout.
“Washington back across my chest. Let’s go!!!!!,” he wrote.
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At 31 years old, Kupp may not be in his prime, but he gives Seattle a much-needed veteran presence in its revamped offense. Yet, his role alongside Jaxon Smith-Njigba is still a big question since both primarily operate out of the slot.
In 2024, Kupp lined up in the slot for 63% of his snaps, while Smith-Njigba did so on 77% of his plays. As a result, the Seahawks led the league with 1,689 receiving yards from the slot.
However, Seattle’s new QB Sam Darnold targeted slot receivers only 26% of the time with the Minnesota Vikings last season — ranking 32nd out of 36 qualifying quarterbacks.
Seattle also signed Marquez Valdes-Scantling, a big-bodied outside receiver who fits well in offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak’s system. Still, Kupp appears to be the clear No. 2 receiver behind Smith-Njigba.
At $15 million per year, Kupp’s deal is reasonable given his injury history and the uncertainty of him playing all 17 games. However, he still makes the Seahawks better for 2025, and he hopes his homecoming helps him regain some of his old form.