Rams Urged Kupp to Retire, Advised Teams to Offer Low Contracts
Cooper Kupp’s departure from the Los Angeles Rams has taken on new significance following his successful stint with the Seattle Seahawks. The veteran wide receiver, who was drafted in 2017, has had a storied career but faced challenges that led to his release from the Rams last March.
Kupp’s Turbulent Exit from the Rams
In February 2023, Kupp expressed his disagreement with the Rams’ decision to trade him, stating, “I always believed it was going to begin and end in L.A.” However, the team ultimately released him. Reports from Michael Silver of The Athletic highlighted that instead of negotiating a salary reduction, the Rams had urged Kupp to retire, severing ties in a disturbing manner.
Further complicating Kupp’s free agency, sources indicated that Rams officials attempted to influence his market value. They reportedly advised potential teams to offer him contracts at or near the veteran minimum, citing concerns about his age and injury history.
Kupp’s Achievements and Recent Success
During his eight seasons with the Rams, Kupp became a key contributor, helping the team secure a Super Bowl victory in the 2021 season. His performance earned him the Super Bowl MVP title and the NFL Offensive Player of the Year award. Nevertheless, injuries plagued him in subsequent seasons, limiting him to fewer than 12 games each year.
Kupp’s relationship with the Rams soured by the time of his release. He noted, “When it ended with the Rams, we weren’t in a good place.”
A New Chapter with the Seahawks
Now with the Seahawks, Kupp’s talents are on full display. Recently, he played a pivotal role in the Seahawks’ NFC Championship Game victory over the Rams, recording four receptions for 36 yards and a touchdown in a thrilling 31-27 game.
As the Seahawks prepare for Super Bowl LX against the New England Patriots, Kupp will have the chance to add another championship ring to his collection. He has taken to social media to celebrate his success, particularly relishing the chance to triumph over his former team.
Key Takeaways
- Kupp was drafted by the Rams in 2017 and spent eight seasons with them.
- He won the Super Bowl MVP and NFL Offensive Player of the Year in 2021.
- After struggling with injuries, Kupp was released in March 2023.
- The Rams reportedly advised teams to limit contract offers to Kupp.
- Kupp secured a place in Super Bowl LX after a successful NFC Championship Game with the Seahawks.
As the narrative unfolds, Cooper Kupp’s journey highlights the complexities of professional sports management and player relations, emphasizing both resilience and the drive for success.
