The Los Angeles Rams have officially informed Cooper Kupp that they are seeking to trade him, marking the end of an era for one of the franchise’s most iconic players. Kupp, who has spent his entire eight-year career with the Rams, expressed his disappointment but remains focused on finding a new team where he can continue competing for championships . With his Cooper Kupp contract set to pay him $20 million in 2025, including a $7.5 million roster bonus, the Rams are looking to free up cap space while finding a suitable trade partner .
As the NFL offseason heats up, let’s explore nine potential destinations for Cooper Kupp, focusing on top-ranked NFC and AFC teams that could benefit from his veteran presence and elite skill set.
Read: Myles Garrett Wants to leave Rams
NFC Options
1. Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys are always in “win-now” mode, and adding Kupp to pair with CeeDee Lamb would create one of the most dynamic receiving duos in the league. Dallas has struggled to find consistent production from their second receiver, and Kupp’s reliability could be the missing piece for their offense .
2. Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles are perennial contenders in the NFC, and adding Cooper Kupp to their receiving corps would give Jalen Hurts another elite weapon. With A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith already on the roster, Kupp could thrive in a complementary role, especially in critical moments .
3. San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers are built to win now, and pairing Kupp with Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk would make their offense nearly unstoppable. While the Rams are unlikely to trade him to a division rival, the 49ers’ championship aspirations could make them a dark horse candidate .
AFC Options
4. Cincinnati Bengals
If the Bengals lose Tee Higgins in free agency, Cooper Kupp could step in as the perfect replacement opposite Ja’Marr Chase. Joe Burrow would benefit immensely from Kupp’s route-running and reliability, keeping Cincinnati’s Super Bowl window wide open .
5. Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs are always looking to add firepower to their offense, and Kupp could be the next star to join Patrick Mahomes’ arsenal. With Travis Kelce aging, Kupp’s ability to create separation and make contested catches would make him an ideal fit in Kansas City’s high-powered attack .
6. Baltimore Ravens
Lamar Jackson has long needed a true No. 1 receiver, and Cooper Kupp could fill that role perfectly. His ability to excel in both short and deep routes would complement Jackson’s dual-threat abilities, giving the Ravens a more balanced offensive attack .
Wildcard Options
7. Denver Broncos
The Denver Broncos are in a transitional phase, but adding a veteran like Cooper Kupp could accelerate their rebuild. With a young quarterback likely at the helm, Kupp’s experience and leadership would be invaluable in helping the team compete in a tough AFC West .
8. New England Patriots
The Patriots are in desperate need of offensive weapons for rookie quarterback Drake Maye. Kupp could serve as a reliable target and mentor for Maye, helping to fast-track the team’s rebuild under new head coach Mike Vrabel .
9. Los Angeles Chargers
Staying in Los Angeles but switching teams, the Chargers could use Kupp to bolster their receiving corps alongside Ladd McConkey. This move would allow Kupp to remain in the same stadium while playing for a team with playoff aspirations .
The Human Side of the Trade
While the business side of the NFL often overshadows personal stories, it’s worth noting that Cooper Kupp and his wife, Anna, have deep roots in Los Angeles. The couple has been actively involved in the community, and a trade would mean uprooting their family. However, Kupp’s professionalism and commitment to excellence suggest he’ll embrace this new chapter with the same dedication he’s shown throughout his career .
Conclusion
The Cooper Kupp trade marks the end of an era for the Rams but opens the door to exciting possibilities for both Kupp and his potential new team. Whether he lands in the NFC or AFC, one thing is certain: Cooper Kupp remains one of the most talented and respected receivers in the NFL. As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on where this future Hall of Famer ends up next.
