The Los Angeles Rams have been at the center of trade speculation since star wide receiver Cooper Kupp was placed on the trade block in January. While the team initially signaled their intent to move on from the veteran playmaker, head coach Sean McVay has now suggested that a reunion isn’t entirely off the table.
During a press conference on Monday, McVay made it clear that the team is still weighing its options. “I would never speak in absolutes,” he said when asked if Kupp would be gone if no trade partner was found. His words, reported by Gary Klein of the L.A. Times, hint at the possibility of Kupp returning for the 2025 NFL season—if the circumstances align.
Uncertain Future: Will Cooper Kupp Stay or Go?
Kupp, 31, has been a staple of the Rams’ offense since being drafted in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft. He solidified his place in franchise history with a historic 2021 season, earning the AP Offensive Player of the Year award and Super Bowl LVI MVP honors after leading the league in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns.
However, injuries have plagued him over the past three seasons. Since his dominant Super Bowl-winning campaign, he has appeared in only 33 of a possible 51 regular-season games. Despite his limited availability, Kupp remained productive in 2024, finishing with 67 receptions for 710 yards and six touchdowns in the regular season. He also recorded six catches for 90 yards in two playoff games.
With the Rams restructuring their roster and looking toward the future, Kupp’s contract has become a key issue. His $29.8 million cap hit for 2025, which includes a $12.5 million base salary and $5 million guaranteed, is a hefty price tag for a team trying to balance cap space while staying competitive.
The Rams’ Dilemma: Financial vs. Football Decision
According to Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic, McVay admitted that parting ways with Kupp has been the toughest decision he’s made since becoming head coach of the Rams. “A lot of layers” factor into the decision, McVay explained, as the team is still gathering information and taking the situation one day at a time.
One major consideration is whether the Rams can find a trade partner willing to take on Kupp’s contract. As of now, no team has stepped forward with an offer that satisfies the organization. If a deal isn’t reached, Los Angeles could opt to keep Kupp rather than release him outright.
Interestingly, McVay confirmed that there have been no discussions about restructuring Kupp’s contract, which suggests that the team is content with either trading him or absorbing the financial impact if he stays.
A Potential Homecoming for Kupp?
Despite the ongoing uncertainty, the idea of Kupp remaining in a Rams uniform still holds appeal. As McVay’s comments suggest, the possibility of retaining the veteran receiver is still on the table—especially if trade talks stall or if the Rams decide Kupp’s presence is too valuable to part with.
Kupp’s chemistry with quarterback Matthew Stafford has been a defining feature of the Rams’ offense in recent years. Even in an injury-shortened season, Kupp continued to be a reliable target and a leader in the locker room. If he stays, he could play a pivotal role in helping Los Angeles remain a playoff contender in 2025.
What’s Next for Kupp and the Rams?
For now, the Rams remain in a wait-and-see mode, evaluating offers and weighing their options. Kupp, meanwhile, will have to wait for clarity on his future—whether that means suiting up for another season in Los Angeles or starting a new chapter elsewhere.
One thing is certain: Cooper Kupp’s legacy with the Rams is secure. Whether he stays or departs, he will always be remembered as a key figure in the franchise’s Super Bowl LVI triumph and one of the most productive receivers in the NFL during his prime.
With McVay refusing to rule out a return, the door remains open for one more ride in the blue and gold—but only time will tell if that becomes a reality.