The Los Angeles Rams-Cooper Kupp relationship seems to be ending, as the 31-year-old receiver announced on Twitter that the team is “seeking a trade immediately.”
Since winning the Triple Crown in 2021, leading the league in receptions (145), receiving yards (1,947) and touchdowns (16), Kupp’s production has fallen off.
The former 2017 third-round pick has failed to play a full season since that historical campaign, appearing in 33 games over the last three seasons.
During that span, Kupp did not eclipse 1,000 receiving yards, showing his age and injury history.
It will be interesting to see what teams are willing to trade for an aging receiver who will command around $20M over the next two seasons.
Although Kupp is clearly not the same player, he can still be a valuable piece for several teams around the league who need a reliable WR2. With that being said, which teams are the best fits for the former Super Bowl LVI MVP?
Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers will clearly need a wide receiver in 2025, as the receiving department lacks consistency and explosiveness.
Landing Ladd McConkey in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft was a steal, but the rest of the receivers on the depth chart left much to be desired.
The rookie receiver was the only wideout on the roster who eclipsed 800 receiving yards with 1,149 yards on 82 receptions. McConkey proved to be the best weapon in Los Angeles, but at his stature, he should not be seeing this type of target share regularly.
Los Angeles’ reliance on McConkey was magnified in the playoff loss to the Houston Texans, as the 23-year-old receiver led the team in targets (14), receptions (nine) and yards (197).
The Chargers have over $70M in cap space to bargain with and the ability to create even more space.
In addition to playing with a team that could be a contender in the near future, Kupp would also be staying in Los Angeles where he has spent the last eight years. He would be playing in the same stadium and would not have to move his family.
Washington Commanders
The surprise story of the 2024 NFL season was the Commanders and rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels reaching the NFC title game.
Because Daniels is currently on a rookie contract, the Commanders need to take advantage of this four-year window and load up the roster around the 24-year-old quarterback.
According to Spotrac, the Commanders have over $82M to spend.
Terry McLaurin will be 30 years old by the start of the 2025 NFL season, which will make it even more interesting if Washington acquires Kupp.
While Kupp would be able to operate from the slot, McLaurin would look to take the top off the defense.
Wide receiver Dyami Brown could depart in free agency after a breakout campaign, which could open the door for Kupp.
Baltimore Ravens
Despite investing first-round picks on wide receivers in recent years, the Ravens have lacked consistency at that position. Baltimore drafted Marquise Brown in the 2019 NFL Draft, Rashod Bateman in the 2021 NFL Draft and Zay Flowers in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Brown was traded after three seasons in Baltimore, while Bateman has dealt with injuries, limiting his production and impact.
Flowers has been the only wideout who has returned his draft value, establishing himself as the clear WR1 and a true deep threat.
Kupp’s ability to beat coverage in the middle of the field aligns perfectly with Lamar Jackson’s ability to extend plays and complete passes in the intermediate areas of the field.
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