The Los Angeles Rams are reportedly considering trading at least one of their star players as the NFL’s November 5 trade deadline approaches. With several teams facing injuries to key wide receivers, Cooper Kupp has emerged as a notable trade candidate for teams looking to bolster their playoff hopes. According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Media, there have been inquiries from various teams regarding Kupp’s availability.
Could the Chiefs trade for Cooper Kupp?
"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." @DMRussini on the upcoming trade deadline.
WATCH:… pic.twitter.com/s8aSSl1Hld
— Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz (@LeBatardShow) October 22, 2024
Dianna Russini of The Athletic has confirmed that the Rams are “definitely open” to trading Kupp. In her recent appearance on the “Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz,” Russini mentioned that Los Angeles might be willing to absorb part of Kupp’s salary, which could make a potential deal more attractive to teams like the Kansas City Chiefs. “If the Rams are willing to take on the salary I heard they are 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 stated. However, she noted that the Chiefs might still face financial constraints, making it challenging for them to pursue Kupp even if the Rams were to offset some of his contract.
Kupp, who has a base salary of $15 million this season, has not played since Week 2 due to an ankle injury. He is expected to return for the upcoming Thursday night game against the Minnesota Vikings, although it’s likely that his playing time will be limited. Despite the Rams improving their record to 2-4 following a victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, the team has not demonstrated the form of a playoff contender.
The primary concern surrounding Kupp’s potential trade value is his injury history. Given that he is 31 years old, teams may be hesitant to offer significant compensation for a player who has struggled with health issues in recent years. However, if the Rams are willing to cover a substantial portion of Kupp’s contract, it could enhance their chances of securing a more favorable return.
When healthy, Kupp has been one of the league’s most productive wide receivers. He recorded impressive stats in the 2021 season, tallying 1,947 receiving yards and 16 touchdowns. This season, he has managed just 18 catches for 147 yards and one touchdown across two games.
Overall, the situation surrounding Kupp presents an intriguing opportunity for both the Rams and interested teams. While the Rams are looking to make strategic moves as they reassess their roster, Kupp’s return to health could spark renewed interest from contenders seeking a veteran receiver who can make an immediate impact. As the trade deadline approaches, the dynamics of Kupp’s situation will continue to unfold, and it will be interesting to see if any teams are willing to take the risk on a player with his talent and past performance.
