Cooper Kupp, the long-time Rams receiver and former Super Bowl MVP, is set to part ways with the Los Angeles Rams after the team announced plans to release him at the start of the new league year unless a trade materializes. Kupp, who turns 32 in June, has been a cornerstone of the Rams’ offense since being drafted in 2017, but injuries, salary cap implications and a shifting team dynamic—highlighted by the emergence of Puka Nacua and the signing of Davante Adams—have led to this decision. Despite recent injury concerns, Kupp’s pedigree as a triple-crown winner and his veteran presence make him an attractive option for several teams. Below, we explore the most likely landing spots for Kupp as he enters the next chapter of his career.
Why Teams Want Cooper Kupp
Before diving into potential destinations, it’s worth noting why Kupp remains a coveted asset. In 2021, he delivered one of the greatest seasons by a wide receiver in NFL history, leading the league in receptions (145), receiving yards (1,947), and touchdowns (16) en route to Super Bowl LVI MVP honors. While injuries have limited him in recent years—missing 18 games since 2022—he still managed 67 catches for 710 yards and six touchdowns in 12 games last season. His ability to get open, particularly in the slot, and his willingness to block in the run game make him a versatile addition. Additionally, Kupp’s leadership and familiarity with modern offensive schemes add value for teams looking to contend or develop young quarterbacks.
However, his contract—owed $20 million in 2025 and $19.85 million in 2026—could complicate trade talks, and his release would allow teams to negotiate a more cap-friendly deal. With that in mind, here are the top landing spots based on team needs, cap space, and fit.
Salary Cap Impact for the Los Angeles Rams
Releasing Cooper Kupp will have significant salary cap implications for the Rams. Kupp’s current contract carries a $20 million cap hit in 2025 and a $19.85 million cap hit in 2026, with $57 million in total remaining over the next two years. If the Rams release Kupp outright, they will incur dead cap charges due to signing bonuses and guaranteed money, but they will also free up future cap space.
- Dead Cap Hit: Releasing Kupp before June 1, 2025, would result in a dead cap hit of approximately $22.3 million in 2025, according to projections. This includes accelerated signing bonus proration and other guarantees.
- Cap Savings: The Rams would save $7.5 million in 2025 cap space and $19.85 million in 2026 cap space, providing some relief for future roster moves.
- Post-June 1 Release: If the Rams designate Kupp as a post-June 1 release, they could spread the dead cap hit over two years—$7.6 million in 2025 and $14.7 million in 2026—while saving $12.4 million in 2025 and $19.85 million in 2026. This option would provide more immediate cap flexibility but delay the full financial relief.
Given the Rams’ recent moves to acquire Davante Adams and their reliance on younger receivers like Puka Nacua, releasing Kupp aligns with their long-term financial strategy. However, the dead cap hit will limit their ability to make significant additions in 2025 unless they opt for a post-June 1 designation.
1. New England Patriots
- Why It Makes Sense: The Patriots are in desperate need of weapons for second-year quarterback Drake Maye. With the most cap space in the league (over $120 million), New England can afford to take on Kupp’s contract or sign him to a new deal. Kupp’s reliability on third downs and in the red zone would give Maye a security blanket, similar to how Julian Edelman and Wes Welker aided Tom Brady.
- Fit: Kupp would instantly become the Patriots’ WR1, providing mentorship for younger receivers and helping Maye avoid a sophomore slump. The team’s “win-now” mentality, despite being far from contention, aligns with Kupp’s desire to compete for championships.
- Likelihood: Moderate to high. Posts on X have highlighted the Patriots as a favored landing spot, with some analysts noting their aggressive pursuit of wide receivers to support Maye.
2. Washington Commanders
- Why It Makes Sense: The Commanders made a surprising run to the NFC Championship Game in 2024, led by rookie sensation Jayden Daniels. However, their receiving corps lacks depth beyond Terry McLaurin, who commands significant defensive attention. Kupp’s ability to work the short and intermediate areas would complement McLaurin’s deep-threat role, giving Daniels another weapon to evolve the offense.
- Fit: Kupp’s veteran presence would bolster a young locker room, and his blocking ability aligns with Washington’s run-heavy approach. The Commanders’ cap space (projected to be significant) makes this move feasible.
- Likelihood: Moderate. Posts on X have listed the Commanders among betting favorites, with odds around +950, suggesting interest from analysts and oddsmakers.
3. Denver Broncos
- Why It Makes Sense: The Broncos exceeded expectations in 2024, making the playoffs behind rookie quarterback Bo Nix and a stout defense. However, their offense remains limited, with Courtland Sutton as the only consistent weapon. Kupp would provide Nix with a dependable target, particularly on third downs, and his familiarity with Sean Payton’s pass-happy schemes makes him an ideal fit.
- Fit: Kupp would upgrade the receiving corps alongside young receivers Troy Franklin and Devaughn Vele, helping Nix take the next step. His addition could help Denver close the gap with AFC heavyweights like Kansas City.
- Likelihood: Moderate. Posts on X have placed the Broncos among the top betting favorites, with odds around +300, indicating strong interest.
4. Los Angeles Chargers
- Why It Makes Sense: If Kupp prefers to stay in Los Angeles, the Chargers offer an intriguing option. They need another receiver to complement Quentin Johnston and Ladd McConkey, especially after losing Josh Palmer to Buffalo in free agency. Kupp’s familiarity with SoFi Stadium and the LA market, combined with the Chargers’ cap space (second-most in the NFL at $93.8 million), makes this a viable destination.
- Fit: Kupp would provide Justin Herbert with a reliable slot option, enhancing an offense that relies on short-to-intermediate passing. His veteran presence and culture-building skills align with Jim Harbaugh’s vision.
- Likelihood: Moderate. Posts on X have suggested the Chargers as a dark horse, with some fans and analysts noting the benefits of Kupp staying in LA.
5. Dallas Cowboys
- Why It Makes Sense: The Cowboys are in need of a complementary receiver to pair with CeeDee Lamb, who has carried the passing game almost single-handedly. Kupp’s ability to work the slot and create separation would give Dak Prescott another reliable target, especially in critical situations. While the Cowboys’ cap situation is tight, a restructured deal could make this feasible, particularly if Kupp prioritizes joining a contender.
- Fit: Kupp would upgrade the Cowboys’ passing attack, providing a veteran presence alongside younger receivers like Jalen Tolson and Ryan Flournoy. His blocking ability also aligns with Dallas’ run-heavy approach under Mike McCarthy.
- Likelihood: Moderate. Posts on X have noted potential interest if the price drops, with odds around +1000, suggesting the Cowboys could be in the mix if they manage their cap creatively.
Other Potential Fits
- Houston Texans: The Texans need a veteran presence after Tank Dell’s injury, but their recent trade for Christian Kirk may reduce urgency. Posts on X have mentioned them as a top destination, with odds around +1200.
- Detroit Lions: The Lions’ offense is already loaded, but Kupp could elevate it further. However, their focus on retaining coordinators and existing weapons makes this less likely. Posts on X list them at +550 odds.
Challenges and Considerations
While Kupp’s talent is undeniable, several factors could impact his landing spot:
- Contract Concerns: Kupp’s $57 million owed over the next two years has deterred trade partners, which is why a release seems more likely. Teams may prefer to sign him to a restructured deal.
- Injury History: Missing 18 games since 2022 raises concerns about durability, especially for a player entering his age-32 season.
- Team Goals: Kupp has expressed a desire to compete for championships, which could rule out rebuilding teams like Cleveland or Tennessee unless they offer significant draft capital in a trade.
Final Word
Cooper Kupp’s release from the Rams marks the end of an era, but his next chapter could be just as impactful. The Patriots and Cowboys stand out as intriguing destinations, given their need for a veteran receiver and potential to compete. The Commanders, Broncos, and Chargers also make sense, offering competitive environments and young quarterbacks who could benefit from Kupp’s presence. While posts on X and betting odds provide insight into current sentiment, the final decision will depend on Kupp’s priorities—whether he values staying in LA, joining a contender, or mentoring a young QB.
For the Rams, releasing Kupp will provide future cap relief but comes with significant dead money in 2025. Whether they opt for a pre-June 1 or post-June 1 release will determine their financial flexibility for the upcoming season. As the new league year begins, all eyes will be on Kupp and the teams vying for his services. One thing is certain: wherever he lands, Kupp’s impact will be felt both on the field and in the locker room..
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