The Los Angeles Rams are off to a rough start in the 2024 NFL season, currently holding a 2-4 record after six weeks.
Injuries and inconsistent performances have plagued the team, and veteran wide receiver Cooper Kupp has found himself at the center of swirling trade rumors as a result.
Kupp, who hasn’t quite returned to his peak form after an injury-riddled start to the season, acknowledged the speculation and responded directly to the trade chatter.
“I’m aware of it but at the end of the day I’m going to be where my feet are. That’s all I know,” Kupp said. “I have a job to do here, and I take a lot of pride in giving everything I can to the guys in this building.”
So far in 2024, Kupp has recorded just 18 catches for 147 yards and one touchdown, a far cry from his previous production.
Early season injuries played a role in his struggles, but Kupp is now healthy and determined to help the Rams right the ship as the season progresses.
As the trade deadline approaches, rumors about Kupp being moved continue to grow.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport recently shed more light on the situation, stating that multiple teams have been in contact with the Rams to inquire about a potential trade for the star receiver.
“What happens when you get all those calls on receiver trades, it leads to more calls,” Rapoport said. “My understanding is teams have been calling the Los Angeles Rams for a potential Cooper Kupp trade, which is a fascinating one to consider.
“The Rams are 1-4. If they continue to lose, certainly they could look to sell. Obviously, there are plenty of teams looking for receivers. I would add the Ravens, the Steelers and the Chiefs are among the teams making calls that could deal for a receiver before the deadline.”
For now, Kupp remains focused on his role with the Rams, regardless of the noise surrounding his future.
As he noted, rumors are part of the business, but his priority is to contribute to his current team and fight through a challenging season.
Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford also acknowledged the rumors and said he plans to keep a positive mindset amidst the uncertainty surrounding his friend and teammate.
“I’m a fan of the league so you hear those things,” Stafford said. “To be honest, we are pro athletes. We are professional football players. We’ve dealt with this kind of stuff before and we understand it comes with the territory.
“[We] don’t put much into it because that’s a disservice to what we’ve got going on here. We’ve a short week and a really good opponent to try to prepare for. That’s our full focus. I know that’s where he stays too. [I] don’t worry too much about that stuff.”
Stafford admitted that the constant rumors can have a negative impact on player’s family members.
“I feel like it’s a lot easier for us to do than it probably is for family members and all that kind of stuff,” he said. “They’re spending all day on their phone looking at that stuff. We’re spending all day looking at film and trying to get ready for an opponent. That part of it makes it easier for us.”
Of course, there are rumors that Stafford himself could potentially be on the trade block, especially if the Rams lose tomorrow against the Minnesota Vikings.
What are your thoughts on the rumors surrounding both Kupp and Stafford? … Will either one of them be traded by the deadline???
