The NFL trade market has been surprisingly active with the deadline still more than two weeks away, and yet another All-Pro wide receiver is receiving interest from contending teams.
Ian Rapoport of NFL Media reported on Sunday that several teams have called the Los Angeles Rams to inquire about a potential trade for Cooper Kupp. The Rams were 1-4 entering Week 7, so the belief from rivals is that Sean McVay and company might become sellers leading up to the deadline.
“My understanding is teams have been calling the Los Angeles Rams for a potential Cooper Kupp trade, which is a fascinating one to consider,” Rapoport said. “(At) 31 years old, obviously Cooper Kupp has been trying to come back from a high-ankle sprain. He’s unlikely to go (Sunday), but next week should be out there and should be healthy for the trade deadline.
“Could Cooper Kupp be available? He’s obviously well liked in the building. He was in Sean McVay’s first draft class, but certainly someone who could absolutely help a team trying to look for one final piece for the playoff push. The Rams are 1-4. If they continue to lose, certainly they could look to sell.”
Rapoport added that the Baltimore Ravens, Kansas City Chiefs and Pittsburgh Steelers are among the teams that are searching for wide receiver help.
Kupp has not played since Week 2 because of an ankle injury. He has been easily one of the most productive receivers in the NFL when healthy, but he has had a difficult time staying on the field in recent years.
It seems unlikely that teams would be willing to give up a high draft pick for Kupp. The Las Vegas Raiders got a conditional third-round pick that could turn into a second when they traded Davante Adams to the New York Jets. The Rams would probably get a lot less than that for Kupp, so they may not feel a trade is worthwhile.
The 31-year-old Kupp had 1,947 yards and 16 touchdowns in 2021, but injuries have been an issue since. He has 18 catches for 147 yards and a score in two games this season.
