The Los Angeles Rams have reportedly been in contact with several teams about the possibility of trading wide receiver Cooper Kupp, according to Dianna Russini of The Athletic.
“If the Rams are willing to take on the salary I’ve heard they’re willing to do, they are definitely open to trading Cooper Kupp so we’ll see if they’ll be able to get a deal done,” Russini said on the Dan Le Batard Show.
While it was previously known that other teams had inquired about Kupp, this new report reveals that the Rams themselves are actively reaching out to explore potential deals.
Russini notes that the Rams are seeking a second-round draft pick in exchange for Kupp and are willing to absorb part of his 2024 salary to facilitate a trade.
This comes as Kupp is set to return from injury for the Rams’ Thursday night game against the Minnesota Vikings.
With the Rams currently holding a 2-4 record, Kupp’s name is quickly becoming one to watch as the NFL’s trade deadline approaches on November 5.
The 31-year-old Kupp is under contract through 2026 but has been sidelined with injuries over the last couple of seasons.
As the Rams continue to struggle with a number of key injuries, including those to Kupp and rising star Puka Nacua, the team’s future direction remains uncertain.
Their upcoming games against the Vikings and the Seattle Seahawks could play a crucial role in determining whether Los Angeles decides to pull the trigger on a Kupp trade.
The Rams’ active pursuit of potential trade partners for Kupp signals a significant shift. If Los Angeles continues to slide in the standings, it may pave the way for a larger roster overhaul, which could include moving their former Super Bowl MVP.
If the Rams decide to trade Kupp, it could indicate the beginning of a long-term rebuild.
Though still highly productive when healthy, Kupp’s age and recent injury history may prompt the Rams to explore trading him for future assets.
However, parting with Kupp alone might not make sense unless the team is committed to a full rebuild.
This leads to speculation that aging quarterback Matthew Stafford could also be moved. While a trade involving Stafford before the deadline might be difficult to execute, rumors have persisted in recent years about the Rams considering a change at the quarterback position.
If the Rams are indeed looking to build for the future, an offseason trade for Stafford might be on the table, especially for a team in need of a veteran leader to make a playoff push.
As for Kupp, teams that are expected to be interested include the Pittsburgh Steelers, Kansas City Chiefs, Minnesota Vikings, Baltimore Ravens and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
What are your thoughts on the report? … Are you surprised that McVay and the Rams are seemingly opened to blowing it up in LA and starting over?
At the end of the day, do you think the Rams will indeed trade Kupp and/or Stafford???
