LOS ANGELES — Cooper Kupp played an instrumental role in leading the Los Angeles Rams to their Super Bowl victory at the end of the 2021 season, highlighted by his decisive touchdown catch.
However, this season, Kupp’s performance has not matched his stellar campaign from the previous year, during which he captured the receiving triple crown—leading the league in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdown catches—along with an impressive playoff showing.
His struggles persisted during the wild-card playoff game against Minnesota, where he recorded only one catch. Yet, the Rams remain optimistic about Kupp’s ability to step up in crucial moments, particularly as they prepare to face the Philadelphia Eagles in the divisional round on Sunday.
“He is deeply ingrained in this offense, even if the numbers don’t fully reflect it right now,” said offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur. “Cooper is still Cooper, and he plays a major role in our strategy.”
In the game against Minnesota, Kupp’s single target turned into a 29-yard reception along the right sideline during the third quarter, helping the Rams secure a field goal that extended their lead to 27-3. After that catch, head coach Sean McVay dialed up five additional passing plays throughout the remainder of the game.
The limited chances for Kupp have contributed significantly to his dip in production as the Rams pivoted towards a run-heavy offense with Kyren Williams and leaned on a stout defense during the final stretch of the regular season. Quarterback Matthew Stafford failed to surpass 189 passing yards in any of the last three victories that locked up the NFC West title, with Kupp only managing four receptions for 53 yards from nine targets during that run.
“I think we’re all about doing what it takes to win right now,” wide receiver Demarcus Robinson commented. “While we could possibly target him more, it’s not worth debating because we are still winning.”
LaFleur mentioned that specific defensive formations or pressure may have hindered Kupp from getting ball opportunities during certain plays.
“I see this as an unusual situation,” he stated. “There have been moments when we aimed to get him the ball, but for various reasons—not getting into details—it just hasn’t panned out. Other times, the coverage hasn’t allowed it.”
Kupp is attempting to maintain a positive outlook amidst the challenges. “That’s just the nature of football, and sometimes unfortunate occurrences accumulate over time,” he expressed.
This season has been quite atypical for Kupp, now in his eighth year with the Rams. He kicked off the season strong with a standout performance in the opener, where he caught 14 passes for 110 yards and a touchdown, but then faced a setback, missing four games due to an ankle injury.
There were even discussions surrounding a potential trade involving Kupp before the November 5 deadline, but he responded by delivering some of his most notable performances, including 100-yard games against Seattle and New England, plus a stellar outing against Buffalo where he recorded five receptions for 92 yards and a touchdown.
Recognizing the unpredictability of the game, Kupp is concentrating on maximizing his chances to contribute.
“All I aim for is to play good football,” Kupp stated. “I want to review the tape and confirm that I’m executing my roles properly, whether it’s separating, competing for my teammates, blocking, or fulfilling my assignments. I am, and that’s all I can control.”
His dedicated approach has inspired younger Rams receivers.
“He is incredibly intentional,” observed rookie Jordan Whittington. “Each step he takes has significance.”
If conditions align favorably, the Eagles (15-3) could discover just how impactful Kupp remains.
Stafford revisited the Rams’ earlier loss to Philadelphia, where he recalled a play when he was pressured while attempting to get the ball to a wide-open Kupp, who registered eight receptions for 60 yards and a touchdown that day.
“He commented that it’s just been the way the season has unfolded,” Stafford recounted. “Things like that happen, but he’s an incredible teammate, selflessly contributing to our team in numerous ways.”
“Our goal is to get him the ball as much as possible. He is exceedingly team-oriented and focused on our collective success.”
