The Pittsburgh Steelers are actively exploring the wide receiver market, and a new potential target has surfaced in Cooper Kupp of the Los Angeles Rams. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Rams have received inquiries from several teams about Kupp’s availability as the trade deadline approaches. Despite the Rams’ 1-4 start and Kupp currently recovering from a high ankle sprain, trading him isn’t a straightforward decision for the Rams. Rapoport mentioned that numerous teams are doing their research on Kupp as part of a “frenzy” of receiver-related calls, though the Rams haven’t explicitly signaled a willingness to part ways with their star wideout.
Rapoport emphasized that any potential Kupp trade would be “complicated and multi-faceted,” given Kupp’s stature as a former NFL Offensive Player of the Year and his significant contract, which has a substantial cap hit in the coming seasons. Kupp’s injury status, which has left him questionable for recent games, also adds layers of uncertainty to any trade talks. Still, the speculation and interest from teams around the league remain high, suggesting Kupp is seen as a prime target for franchises looking to bolster their receiving corps.
For the Steelers, Kupp could be a major acquisition, especially as they continue to show interest in various wide receiver options. Earlier in the season, Pittsburgh reportedly explored trades for other notable receivers such as Davante Adams from the Las Vegas Raiders and Brandon Aiyuk from the San Francisco 49ers. They are also linked to New York Jets receiver Mike Williams, potentially in light of the Jets’ acquisition of Adams. Should a deal for Kupp materialize, Pittsburgh would likely be among the top contenders to land him.
However, financial considerations could complicate a potential deal. Kupp’s current contract has him carrying a cap hit exceeding $29 million for the next two seasons, before decreasing slightly to $27.3 million in 2025. The Steelers would need to be creative with their cap space to make a move like this feasible, but that hasn’t stopped them from pursuing high-profile deals in the past.
Overall, while a Kupp trade is far from certain, the Steelers’ interest in high-caliber receivers this season suggests they could be among the teams keeping a close watch on his status leading up to the NFL trade deadline. Should the Rams decide to entertain offers, the Steelers may well emerge as serious contenders.
