After being released by the Los Angeles Rams earlier this week, Cooper Kupp has drawn interest from multiple teams across the league. However, reports suggest that his contract demands may be a sticking point in negotiations, with teams weighing his value against his age and recent injury history.
According to Jeff Howe of The Athletic, Kupp is seeking as much as $15 million per year in free agency. However, the 31-year-old wide receiver may be open to lowering his price tag for the right opportunity, particularly if it means joining one of his preferred teams.
Teams Balking at Kupp’s Asking Price
Despite Kupp’s proven ability as a top-tier slot receiver, some teams are hesitant to meet his financial demands. Dianna Russini of The Athletic reported on Friday that his contract expectations have been a hold-up for multiple interested teams, with several unwilling to go beyond $13-14 million per year.
Howe added that Kupp’s list of potential destinations would expand if more teams were willing to offer him his desired $15 million per year.
However, with Kupp entering the later stages of his career and dealing with recurring injuries, teams are hesitant to commit too much financially. Many general managers are weighing whether his current production justifies a top-tier salary, especially when considering other available wide receivers in the free-agent market.
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Kupp’s Contract Strategy: Guaranteed Money vs. Championship Window
While the average annual salary is a major factor, Kupp’s decision may come down to the amount of guaranteed money teams are willing to offer. Some teams may present a lower per-year salary but include more upfront guarantees, making the overall contract more appealing.
Kupp likely recognizes that this is his last chance to secure a lucrative free-agent deal, so maximizing guaranteed money will be a crucial part of his decision-making process.
Another key consideration? Super Bowl contention.
Kupp may be willing to take less money for the opportunity to compete for another championship, similar to what Odell Beckham Jr. did when signing with the Rams in 2021. If a Super Bowl-caliber team enters the mix, Kupp may prioritize team success over financial incentives.
Kupp’s Production and Potential Fit
Although Kupp is no longer the dominant force who won the 2021 receiving triple crown—when he recorded an eye-popping 145 receptions, 1,947 yards, and 16 touchdowns—he remains a highly effective receiver.
In 2023, Kupp played in 12 games, finishing with:
- 67 receptions
- 710 yards
- 6 touchdowns
Despite a dip in production, Kupp still excels as a slot receiver with a knack for getting open in crucial moments, making him an attractive target for contending teams in need of a reliable possession receiver.
A Surprise Team Entering the Race?
While several teams have expressed interest in Kupp, one unexpected team is reportedly making a push to sign him.
With the market still developing, Kupp has multiple options, but it may come down to a choice between financial security and playing for a championship-caliber team.
As free agency progresses, all eyes will be on whether Kupp can secure the deal he’s looking for—or if he’ll have to adjust his expectations to land with a contender.