Cooper Kupp is in a state of uncertainty regarding the future of his outstanding eight-year career with the Los Angeles Rams, especially following the team’s recent playoff performance in Philadelphia. Although he remains under contract for the upcoming two seasons, the considerable financial obligations tied to his deal could lead the Rams to consider parting ways with their Super Bowl 56 MVP. Kupp is aware of this reality.
During a locker clean-out day at the team’s training facility, Kupp expressed his ambivalence. “A lot of stuff is out of my control,” he remarked, recognizing that negotiations and team strategies would ultimately shape his future. While he would prefer to stay in Los Angeles, Kupp admits he lacks clarity regarding his position. The “stuff” he hinted at relates to potential trade talks, particularly after the Rams stumbled to a 1-4 start, which included gauging interest in a trade for Kupp amid his recovery from injury.
Kupp’s contract poses a significant financial dilemma for the Rams in 2025 when he is set to consume almost $30 million in salary cap space. If released, the Rams could save approximately two-thirds of that amount, given Kupp’s age of 32 next season. There’s a possibility of renegotiating his contract, but Kupp is acutely aware that the organization’s front office has shown a pragmatic streak in the past, making tough decisions about other high-profile players like Jared Goff and Todd Gurley during their contract negotiations.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his situation, Kupp has no intention of retiring. “I feel like I’ve got a lot of good football left in me,” he affirmed confidently, making clear his commitment to continue playing in the next season. Reflecting on the recently concluded season, Kupp labeled it as “frustrating.” He struggled with injuries and faced challenges in terms of production once he returned to action. Nevertheless, he took pride in the team’s turnaround from a rocky start to securing the NFC West title and making a playoff appearance, suggesting they were barely a few plays away from advancing further.
The Rams’ narrow playoff elimination in Philadelphia has not dampened optimism for the upcoming season. Their late-season momentum, with ten wins out of their last fourteen games, has sparked hope for a strong contender status moving forward. Kupp indicated that he wasn’t laboring under an injury that would hinder his offseason preparation, but his performance numbers fell below his usual standards. He recorded 67 receptions for 710 yards and six touchdowns, with a particularly slow finish—only 12 catches for 162 yards over the last five regular-season games, marking the least productive stretch of his career.
Kupp also alluded to a desire for a greater role in head coach Sean McVay’s offense, asserting that while he believes he executed his responsibilities well, he still wants to make a more significant impact on games. Citing both frustration and satisfaction from the season, he reiterated the team’s ability to find ways to win, even when offensive performances weren’t at their peak.
In the context of the quarterback situation, the Rams are waiting for Matthew Stafford’s decision regarding his future, as he mentioned he would take some time to reflect. Although he faced challenges, including managing a rib injury, his outlook remained optimistic for a potential return in the following season. With next season marking Stafford’s 17th year in the league, he experienced less pressure this season, being sacked just 28 times—his lowest since his early days in Detroit. Stafford opted not to address the media following the end of the season.
As the Rams prepare for the offseason, there are substantial decisions to be made, especially concerning their unrestricted free agents. Notably, left tackle Alaric Jackson, who has been a strong player for the team, may be in line for a lucrative deal. Other free-agent considerations include receiver Tutu Atwell, who may look for more opportunities, along with veteran tackle Joe Noteboom and linebacker Michael Hoecht. Veteran receiver Demarcus Robinson has expressed a strong desire to return, having achieved career highs this season and emphasizing his appreciation for the team and coaching staff.
