NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport suggests that Cooper Kupp’s significant salary may prompt the Los Angeles Rams to release the veteran wide receiver rather than explore a trade.
“There’s going to be a market,” Rapoport said on Saturday. “There’s going to be interest in the veteran playmaking receiver. The question, though, is is there enough interest to do a trade where a team will take on his full salary? If not, it certainly seems a possibility for the Rams would be cutting Kupp and then moving on.”
Kupp is scheduled to make $20 million in 2025 and $19.78 million in 2026 with respective $29.78 million and $27.33 million salary cap numbers. The $20 million consists of a $12.5 million base salary and a $7.5 million fifth day of the league year roster bonus that’s due on March 16 where $5 million of this $7.5 million is fully guaranteed without an offset.
Los Angeles Rams Maybe Forced To Cut Cooper Kupp Sooner Than Later
On February 3rd, Kupp disclosed that the team had communicated their intent to trade him “immediately.”
The 31-year-old has spent the entirety of his eight-year NFL career with the Los Angeles Rams, notably highlighted by his exceptional 2021 season. That year, he led the league in receptions (145), receiving yards (1,947), and receiving touchdowns (16).
However, Kupp has struggled to replicate that level of performance in subsequent seasons. He has not surpassed 900 receiving yards in any of the last three years and has faced recurring health challenges, appearing in only 33 of a possible 51 regular-season games during that period.
While his past production and name recognition might generate trade interest, teams are likely wary of assuming his substantial contract, which includes $20 million owed in 2025 and $19.85 million in 2026 (per NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo). Despite this, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport indicates that a trade market for Kupp does exist. The Detroit Lions, Kansas City Chiefs, New England Patriots, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Washington Commanders have all been identified as potential suitors.
Nevertheless, the financial commitment associated with Kupp’s remaining contract could ultimately lead the Rams to release him if they are unable to secure a trade partner willing to absorb his salary.
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