The Los Angeles Rams, currently 2-4 and at the bottom of the NFC West, are facing a difficult decision regarding their roster as they rebuild following the retirement of defensive superstar Aaron Donald. One significant move that the Rams are rumored to be considering is trading their Super Bowl 56 MVP, wide receiver Cooper Kupp. With the NFL trade deadline approaching on Nov. 5, the Rams might be contemplating moving their veteran receiver as part of their rebuild.
Kupp, who is 31 years old, is expected to return from his high ankle sprain soon, either for the Rams’ Week 8 game against the Vikings or their Week 9 matchup with Seattle. However, the Rams could potentially trade him before he even takes the field again. According to reports, Los Angeles would be seeking a second-round pick as part of the compensation in any potential deal involving Kupp. Given the demand for elite wide receivers and Kupp’s established track record, several teams could be interested in acquiring him for a push toward the postseason.
There are a number of teams that could benefit from a player of Kupp’s caliber, especially as many are struggling with injuries to their own receiving corps. One team that stands out as a potential landing spot for Kupp is the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers could use a versatile wide receiver who can line up across the field, complementing their current passing attack led by George Pickens. Pittsburgh’s offense, though improving, still lacks a reliable, consistent playmaker to balance the attack, and Kupp could be the key piece they need to contend in the AFC.
Another potential destination for Kupp is the Los Angeles Chargers. This move would allow Kupp to remain in Los Angeles, where he’s already established, and would provide quarterback Justin Herbert with a reliable target to bolster their passing game. The Chargers’ wide receiver corps is currently lacking in both depth and experience, so adding someone like Kupp could make a significant difference in their offensive production.
The Washington Commanders could also be in the mix for Kupp, especially given their current offensive strategy that relies on a committee of receivers. Adding Kupp to the mix would give the Commanders a reliable option in the slot and enhance their passing attack. Additionally, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, dealing with injuries to key receivers like Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, could benefit from acquiring Kupp to maintain their playoff hopes in the NFC South.
The Detroit Lions are another team that could potentially pursue Kupp. Reuniting Kupp with his former Rams teammate Jared Goff could give the Lions a significant edge in the NFC, especially with a receiving corps that already includes talented players like Amon-Ra St. Brown and tight end Sam LaPorta. Lastly, the Minnesota Vikings, who are set to face the Rams in Week 8, could be a landing spot for Kupp. Pairing him with Justin Jefferson would create one of the most formidable receiving duos in the league.
Despite the number of teams that could use Kupp’s services, one team that is unlikely to be in the running is the San Francisco 49ers. While the 49ers are dealing with injuries to their own wide receivers, including Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel, it’s highly unlikely that the Rams would make a deal with a division rival, especially one as competitive as the 49ers. The Rams are looking to the future and are unlikely to help a team like the 49ers, who are currently a direct competitor within the division.
In summary, while the Los Angeles Rams may be preparing for a rebuild, moving Cooper Kupp could be a crucial decision for the franchise. Teams around the league, particularly those looking to make a postseason run, will likely be very interested in Kupp’s services as the trade deadline approaches.
