Cooper Kupp revealed that the Los Angeles Rams intended to trade him during the 2025 offseason, though not everyone in the organization supported the decision. The reason for this hesitation is becoming more apparent—his trade market has been relatively quiet.
With additional trade candidates emerging, along with the approaching free agency and draft, the Rams may need to reconsider their approach regarding Kupp.
“It seems more likely than not that this is headed for a release,” NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport said on The Insiders on March 6. “Someone could trade for him—it could literally happen as I’m talking—but that’s what it seems.”
Rapoport added, “Kupp isn’t going to make $20 million anyway, so being a free agent wouldn’t be a bad outcome. He’s a veteran receiver with plenty left in the tank, and he wouldn’t be too expensive. He’s already made money and won at the highest level, so he could be a strong free-agent acquisition. But I’d be surprised if this results in a trade.”
Kupp is entering the second year of a three-year, $80.1 million contract, with a $27.8 million cap hit for 2025—$7.8 million of which comes from a roster bonus. The Rams currently project to have $51.7 million in cap space, though that number will likely shift once Matthew Stafford’s contract adjustments are finalized.
Kupp has expressed a preference to be traded to a competitive team, and if the cost to acquire him is reduced, he could become a more attractive option for potential suitors.
Releasing Cooper Kupp Could Be Rams’ Best Option
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport noted that both the Rams and Cooper Kupp have been transparent about his availability for a trade. He suggested that the Rams could absorb part of Kupp’s salary to facilitate a deal but questioned whether teams would still be interested.
