What Happened to Cooper Kupp? Revisiting the WR’s Rams Exit and Trade to Seahawks

Cooper Kupp was a key player for the Los Angeles Rams after being drafted in the third round in 2017, serving as the heart of their passing attack for nearly a decade. He played a pivotal role in the Rams' Super Bowl victory in 2021, highlighted by a historic triple-crown season where he led the NFL in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns, earning Offensive Player of the Year honors with 1,947 yards and 16 touchdowns on 145 receptions. His playoff performance was equally impressive, averaging 119.5 receiving yards per game and winning Super Bowl MVP by helping defeat the Cincinnati Bengals.

However, Kupp's career faced setbacks due to injuries that sidelined him for 17 games over the next three seasons, leading to a decline in production. From 2022 to 2024, his combined stats only slightly surpassed his 2021 achievements, with the Rams deciding to release him after exploring trade options with no interest from other teams. This decision was influenced by his high salary of $39.8 million over two years and the emergence of younger receivers like Puka Nacua, making his release a cost-effective move for the team.

The Seattle Seahawks signed Kupp shortly after his release as part of a broader effort to rebuild their receiving corps, following the trade of DK Metcalf and the loss of Tyler Lockett in free agency. Kupp inked a three-year, $45 million deal, viewing the move as an opportunity to return home and join a team with playoff aspirations after his successful stint with the Rams. The Seahawks also brought in quarterback Sam Darnold and are relying on young receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba to support their offensive strategy.

Despite the expectations, Kupp's start with the Seahawks has been underwhelming, with only 15 receptions for 162 yards and no touchdowns through the first four games of the season. His performance ranks 48th in PFSN's WR Impact metric, indicating a slow adaptation to his new team and raising questions about his ability to replicate his past success.