After the Los Angeles Rams fell short to the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Divisional Round, 28-22, head coach Sean McVay has to examine his team’s future. The Rams won the Super Bowl in February 2022, led by veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford and triple-crown-winning wide receiver Cooper Kupp.
Just three years after the Rams’ Super Bowl victory over the Cincinnati Bengals, rumors of Stafford and Kupp’s eventual departures have begun to swirl. Stafford announced he would like to return for another season after dabbling with retirement, and the Rams informed Kupp the team would be seeking a trade immediately.
Cooper Kupp’s Future With the Rams Coming to End, WR Shares
The Rams receiver made it abundantly clear after Los Angeles’ loss to Philadelphia: retirement is not an option. However, the one-time Pro Bowler left the door open for playing elsewhere next season, which is a problem for Rams fans.
I was informed that the team will be seeking a trade immediately and will be working with me and my family to find the right place to continue competing for championships. I don’t agree with the decision and always believed it was going to begin and end in LA.
Still, if there’s… pic.twitter.com/XWmbGVscGy
— Cooper Kupp (@CooperKupp) February 4, 2025
Kupp released a message on his social media page, showing his frustration. The All-Pro wide receiver stated, “I don’t agree with the decision and always believed it was going to begin and end in LA. Still, if there’s one thing that I have learned over the years: there are so many things that are out of your control, but it is how you respond to these things that you will look back on and remember.”
“I have taken so much pride in playing alongside my teammates for the LA community, so thank you for embracing my family and making this such a special place for us. 2024 began with one of the best training camps of my career. Preparations start now for 2025. Highly motivated, as healthy as ever, and looking forward to playing elite football for years to come. Love you, guys. But coming for it all.”
The AFC North would be a great target for Kupp. If he can remain healthy, Kupp could make a serious impact in the AFC North for either the Pittsburgh Steelers or Baltimore Ravens. Given his blocking prowess and nuanced game, any team would be lucky to have him.
Meanwhile, Ravens QB Lamar Jackson’s targets had drop issues throughout the season. Kupp dropped two passes last season, four the year before, and two again in 2022.
“Kupp is due $20 million in 2025, a $7.5 million roster bonus payable in March (fully guaranteed), and a $12.5 million base salary. Barring a renegotiation, a team making a trade with the Rams would assume that money and $19.85 in 2026,” said NFL insider Mike Garafolo.
The Rams finished the year ranked 11th by PFN’s Offense+ metric. With Kupp operating as a key cog in that offensive machine, replacing him could become the tallest task of Los Angeles’ offseason.