The Los Angeles Rams are reportedly considering trading star wide receiver Cooper Kupp. With the Rams struggling at 2-4, a trade could benefit both Kupp and the team. This article explores three potential landing spots for the talented receiver.
Cooper Kupp warming up before a game.
The Rams’ struggles have fueled speculation about Kupp’s future with the team. NFL insider Dianna Russini reported that the Rams are willing to trade Kupp for a second-round pick and are open to absorbing some of his 2024 salary. While the asking price is high, several teams could benefit from acquiring a player of Kupp’s caliber.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Filling a Void
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers recently lost wide receiver Chris Godwin to a season-ending injury, leaving a significant gap in their offense. Mike Evans, the team’s other star receiver, is also dealing with injuries and is over 30 years old.
Cooper Kupp in a game against the Arizona Cardinals.
Acquiring Kupp would provide the Buccaneers with a much-needed offensive weapon and alleviate the pressure on Evans. With defenses currently able to double-team Evans, adding Kupp would force them to spread their coverage, potentially revitalizing the Buccaneers’ passing attack. This trade could be crucial for the Buccaneers to contend in the NFC South and make a deep playoff run.
Baltimore Ravens: Completing a Superteam
The Baltimore Ravens have rebounded from a slow start but still lack a consistent second receiving threat to complement their star quarterback, Lamar Jackson. Adding Kupp to the Ravens’ offense could elevate them to Super Bowl contender status.
Pairing Kupp with tight end Mark Andrews would give Jackson two elite targets, making the Ravens offense one of the most formidable in the league. To compete with the top teams in the AFC, particularly the Kansas City Chiefs, the Ravens need a game-changing receiver like Kupp.
New England Patriots: Igniting the Drake Maye Era
The New England Patriots have embraced the Drake Maye era at quarterback. To maximize Maye’s potential and evaluate his long-term viability, the Patriots need to surround him with proven talent. Acquiring Kupp would provide Maye with a reliable target and a valuable mentor.
Adding Kupp could also reignite a past connection. Kupp and current Patriots receiver Kendrick Bourne were teammates at Eastern Washington University. Reuniting these two could create a dynamic receiving duo and inject new life into the Patriots’ offense. This move could provide valuable insights into Maye’s future while potentially accelerating his development.
Conclusion
Trading for Cooper Kupp would be a significant investment for any team, but the potential rewards are substantial. For the Buccaneers, Ravens, and Patriots, acquiring Kupp could be the missing piece to a championship puzzle. The Rams’ asking price is high, but for teams with Super Bowl aspirations, Kupp’s talent and experience could be worth the cost. Where will Cooper Kupp land? Only time will tell.
