Before the season even kicked off, one of the biggest talking points circling the Los Angeles Chargers was how they’d rebuild a receiving corps that just kicked Keenan Allen and Mike Williams to the curb. So far, through seven weeks, the decisions to move on from both aging receivers looks like a wise one.
Allen has recorded just 15 catches for 122 receiving yards and two touchdowns. Meanwhile, Williams has just 11 receptions for 160 yards and has already emerged as a popular trade candidate. The Chargers could reunite with Williams, if they wanted to, yet GM Joe Hortiz would probably prefer to either go younger or save his draft capital for an even better player.
It turns out, an All-Pro receiver has become available, and now he’s been linked to the Chargers.
Related: Chargers Active In WR Trade Talks
Could the Los Angeles Chargers trade for Cooper Kupp?
One of the hottest names on this year’s NFL trade block is Los Angeles Rams All-Pro receiver Cooper Kupp. When the season started, it seemed unfathomable that Sean McVay would approve his top receiver’s dismissal, but a 2-4 start may have changed his tune.
Kupp is said to be available, for the right price. The Athletic’s Dianna Russini suggests the Rams want a second-round pick, but it’s possible they’d have to settle for something closer to a third-round pick in exchange for the Super Bowl LVI MVP, and now some around the league wonder if the Chargers would be an ideal fit.
Sleeper team for Kupp: Chargers
— Ted Nguyen (@FB_FilmAnalysis) October 22, 2024
They need WR help bad and Kupp can stay home
If the Chargers feel like this is their year to compete for an AFC West Wild Card slot, then going all in for a top wideout like Kupp makes sense. A 3-3 start at least puts them in that conversation.
Good luck finding a more accomplished receiver. Plus, adding Kupp now takes more pressure off the Chargers to find a No. 1 receiver during the offseason, since he’s still under contract through 2026. We’ll find out whether the front office is willing to pay the price soon enough, with the NFL’s trade deadline coming up on Nov. 5.
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