Rams Part Ways with Longtime Receiver Cooper Kupp in Surprising Move
In a move that has sent ripples through the NFL landscape, the Los Angeles Rams have released veteran wide receiver Cooper Kupp, ending his tenure with the team after seven seasons. The decision marks the end of an era for the Rams, as Kupp had become a cornerstone of the franchise, particularly during their Super Bowl-winning campaign in 2021.
The organization officially announced Kupp’s release on Wednesday, confirming earlier speculation surrounding his future with the team. Kupp himself had fueled those rumors last month with a social media post indicating that the Rams were actively seeking a trade partner.
"The team was seeking a trade immediately and will be working with me and my family to find the right place to continue competing for championships," Kupp stated in the post, hinting at an impending departure from Los Angeles.
While Kupp expressed his disappointment with the Rams’ decision, acknowledging that he had always envisioned his career beginning and ending in Los Angeles, he also conveyed his determination to continue playing at a high level for years to come.
"I have taken so much pride in playing alongside my teammates for the LA community, so thank you for embracing my family and making this such a special place for us," Kupp wrote, expressing gratitude for his time with the Rams and the support he received from the fans.
He added, "2024 began with one of the best training camps of my career. Preparations start now for 2025. Highly motivated, as healthy as ever, and looking forward to playing elite football for years to come. Love you guys… But coming for it all."
Kupp’s release comes after a period of injury struggles that have hampered his production in recent seasons. Since his remarkable 2021 campaign, where he earned the receiving Triple Crown and Super Bowl MVP honors, Kupp has been limited to just 33 out of a possible 51 games.
Although he has remained productive when on the field, his role in the Rams’ offense has diminished, particularly with the emergence of rookie sensation Puka Nacua last season. Nacua quickly established himself as a key target for quarterback Matthew Stafford, even eclipsing Kupp’s performance at times.
Drafted by the Rams in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft out of Eastern Washington University, Kupp quickly developed into a reliable receiver, known for his exceptional route running, sure hands, and unwavering work ethic.
His breakout season came in 2021, when he recorded an astounding 145 receptions for 1,947 yards and 16 touchdowns, leading the league in all three categories and earning the coveted receiving Triple Crown. He followed up that performance with a Super Bowl MVP award, solidifying his place as one of the league’s elite wide receivers.
However, injuries have taken their toll in the years since, limiting Kupp’s ability to consistently contribute at his peak level. His 710 receiving yards last season were his lowest since 2018, when he missed half the season due to injury. He has not played in more than 12 games in a season since 2021 and has not surpassed the 1,000-yard mark in either of the past two seasons.
Despite his recent injury struggles, Kupp’s talent and experience are expected to make him a coveted free agent this offseason. Multiple teams seeking a reliable veteran receiver to bolster their offense are likely to express interest in acquiring his services.
The Rams’ decision to release Kupp also reflects their strategic approach to roster building. The team recently extended Matthew Stafford’s contract, signaling their commitment to him as their franchise quarterback. Additionally, the Rams have reportedly agreed to bring in veteran wide receiver Davante Adams on a two-year deal, further strengthening their receiving corps.
Adams, who previously enjoyed tremendous success with Aaron Rodgers during his time with the Green Bay Packers, is expected to provide Stafford with another reliable target and elevate the Rams’ passing game. His brief stint with the Jets was not considered to be indicative of his true talent.
With the emergence of Nacua and the addition of Adams, the Rams appear to be prioritizing younger, more durable receivers to complement Stafford’s skills. Releasing Kupp, while a difficult decision given his contributions to the franchise, allows the Rams to allocate resources to other areas of the team and build for the future.
As Cooper Kupp embarks on a new chapter in his NFL career, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence and dedication in Los Angeles. His remarkable 2021 season and Super Bowl MVP performance will forever be etched in the memories of Rams fans. While his time with the team has come to an end, his impact on the franchise and the city will not be forgotten.
