WR Cooper Kupp, SEA (7 Viewers)

[JohnnyU]

hat's why they call it "falling off a cliff"...

I thought the new term was "going to the train station"

Maybe a little different... as in the Cleveland Browns would probably like to "take Deshaun Watson to the train station" (because it looks like his athleticism has fallen off the cliff).

.....more like take Deshaun Watson to the train tracks.

 

[MAC_32]

Declining asset. Rams should trade him if they can get a day 2 pick.

Who's giving up a day 2 pick for a 31 yr old that's been held under 1K yds 3 years in a row, missed multiple games in each season, and is under team control for just 2 more years.

So you don't think he's tradable for a 4th round pick?

In the quoted you have said both day 2 pick and 4th rd pick.

 

[JohnnyU]

Declining asset. Rams should trade him if they can get a day 2 pick.

Who's giving up a day 2 pick for a 31 yr old that's been held under 1K yds 3 years in a row, missed multiple games in each season, and is under team control for just 2 more years.

So you don't think he's tradable for a 4th round pick?

In the quoted you have said both day 2 pick and 4th rd pick.

You are correct. Round 4 is on Satduray (day 3). I'll change my post to reflect that.

 

[JoeJoe88]

Declining asset. Rams should trade him if they can get a day 2 pick.

Who's giving up a day 2 pick for a 31 yr old that's been held under 1K yds 3 years in a row, missed multiple games in each season, and is under team control for just 2 more years.

So you don't think he's tradable for a 4th round pick?

In the quoted you have said both day 2 pick and 4th rd pick.

Not sure they could get either.

 

[MAC_32]

Not sure they could get either.

Same, I'd be surprised if they got more than a day 3 pick swap.

 

[Mitchie]

In his last 4 games he has 10 targets for 5 receptions and 82 yards...he used to get that in a quarter a few years ago...it's not like he is in a slump...they have phased him out during important games.

They phased him that last half of the season. It was obvious that Puka took over the marquee role and that Kupp was no longer the man. It was painfully obvious watching the games.

It really doesn't make sense. Like Puka being the clear #1 is fine, but Kupp having 2.5 targets a game over the last month is just a waste of Kupp's talent.

Is he still getting the same separation? Maybe they see a drop off in his skills.

Gotta believe that has to do with this...makes too much sense not to.

I honestly don't see how that makes any sense. You don't lose that much ability, speed or quickness in two months, only explanation would be if you have some sort of injury.

When you look at the 7 games after he came back from his injury but before this 4 game skid he had 64 targets for 45 receptions for 510 yards and 5 TDs and that was with Puka playing...gotta believe there is a good chance he is playing injured right now.

But if that’s true, they have to have other players who could block and collect zero targets. I know it’s crazy, but it seems almost personal.

Maybe Kupp pisssed off Kelly Stafford.

Agree that he didn’t lose his ability overnight and agree that they have other players they can use as blockers. Maybe a decoy thing but hard to be a decoy without getting targets. Very odd.

Wouldn't be the first.

This is how it usually happens. That's why they call it "falling off a cliff"... it's sudden... lot of bodies down there.

it never happens this fast, like literally never.

 

[travdogg]

In his last 4 games he has 10 targets for 5 receptions and 82 yards...he used to get that in a quarter a few years ago...it's not like he is in a slump...they have phased him out during important games.

They phased him that last half of the season. It was obvious that Puka took over the marquee role and that Kupp was no longer the man. It was painfully obvious watching the games.

It really doesn't make sense. Like Puka being the clear #1 is fine, but Kupp having 2.5 targets a game over the last month is just a waste of Kupp's talent.

Is he still getting the same separation? Maybe they see a drop off in his skills.

Gotta believe that has to do with this...makes too much sense not to.

I honestly don't see how that makes any sense. You don't lose that much ability, speed or quickness in two months, only explanation would be if you have some sort of injury.

When you look at the 7 games after he came back from his injury but before this 4 game skid he had 64 targets for 45 receptions for 510 yards and 5 TDs and that was with Puka playing...gotta believe there is a good chance he is playing injured right now.

But if that’s true, they have to have other players who could block and collect zero targets. I know it’s crazy, but it seems almost personal.

Maybe Kupp pisssed off Kelly Stafford.

Agree that he didn’t lose his ability overnight and agree that they have other players they can use as blockers. Maybe a decoy thing but hard to be a decoy without getting targets. Very odd.

Honestly, at the risk of acting like I know more than McVay and co. I think its severely hurt the offense to use Kupp in this way. There is ZERO chance he's suddenly washed. He just isn't be used, and its poor playcalling in my eyes. Kupp is still at least a solid #2 WR. You can't tell DeMarcus Robinson or Tutu Atwell (who I think is underrated) are more deserving of targets.

Sean McVay is an excellent HC, but this usage of Kupp has absolutely made their offense easier to defend. Not counting the week 18 game where the starters didn't play, the offense hasn't topped 20 points in any of the last 4 games. That's a problem. The last game they did, was also the last game Kupp had more than 3 targets, and he went for 5-92-1.

 

[menobrown]

I'll say the same thing about him as I did about Deebo. I think both are playing with some type of injury limiting them. The drop-off is just to severe, like almost from one week to the next. Both of them play very physical styles and are old/older so I've no doubt they are slip sliding down the hill and past their primes but I don't think they cliff dove.

Rams have been handling his contract to give them an exit out. Stafford's as well for that matter but that's another story. What I mean in both cases was they tried to not touch either of their base salaries, which are the two highest on the team.

He's got a $5M roster bonus for 2026 which locks in the third day of the league year this upcoming off-season so if they want to move him they'd prefer to do it within the first few days of FA.

Any team trading for him would inherit a salary of $12.5m for next season and they can make his cap hit lower.

A few things really help the Rams market if they try and move him. The weak draft class for WR's. The inlux of head coaches and OC's in the league from the McVay and to a lesser extent the Shanahan tree creating a comfort level to some degree with the system and in some of these cases the person as Kupp played under some of these coaches. I think those are his major draws past the fact he's unselfish and willing to do dirty work, big effort blocker, that kind of thing.

I'm guessing a late three is top of his market, more likely a 4th with perhaps some conditions that could net more.

 

[pinkstapler]

I get Kupp owners are upset, but the Rams won their division and just curb stomped the 14-3 Vikings 27-9 in the first round of the playoffs. I'm pretty sure McVay isn't worried about his offense. If anything has been holding it back this season it's been Stafford.

Occam's razor is he's injured or he's fallen off or some mix of both. Not that McVay is suddenly a bad coach or that Stafford is mad at him lol. Kupp is 31 and played 8 seasons. He had one that was for the record books, and another excellent one. The rest were quite frankly, not good. Whether players have bad seasons because a lack of skill or a lack of availability, they are still bad seasons. Anyone expecting a sudden return to 2021 is probably going to be very disappointed.

If I owned him anywhere, I'd be looking to sell because though his value is low; by mid point of next season once people get more verification on players like BTJ, Ladd, Nabors, and MHJ, and you give more time to already metrically sound players like Pearsall, Odunze, McMillan, Coker, etc..... I think that value will only be dropping further. At least in dynasty. He could be worth it in redraft where you're only renting him a season at a time. It may not be the 2014 class, but this rookie crop is going to dust the values of some aging vets very quickly.

 

[jm192]

I think he's certainly "done" in fantasy.

He's 31.5. He'll hit 32 this summer.

Maybe he hasn't "lost it." Maybe we'll find out there's an injury. Guess what. There's always an injury. I don't know how you trust him at 32 years old, seeing the poor results at this point of the season. He's had some nice games this year. But he also fell off a cliff to end the year.

 

[Dizzy]

In his last 4 games he has 10 targets for 5 receptions and 82 yards...he used to get that in a quarter a few years ago...it's not like he is in a slump...they have phased him out during important games.

They phased him that last half of the season. It was obvious that Puka took over the marquee role and that Kupp was no longer the man. It was painfully obvious watching the games.

It really doesn't make sense. Like Puka being the clear #1 is fine, but Kupp having 2.5 targets a game over the last month is just a waste of Kupp's talent.

Is he still getting the same separation? Maybe they see a drop off in his skills.

Gotta believe that has to do with this...makes too much sense not to.

I honestly don't see how that makes any sense. You don't lose that much ability, speed or quickness in two months, only explanation would be if you have some sort of injury.

When you look at the 7 games after he came back from his injury but before this 4 game skid he had 64 targets for 45 receptions for 510 yards and 5 TDs and that was with Puka playing...gotta believe there is a good chance he is playing injured right now.

But if that’s true, they have to have other players who could block and collect zero targets. I know it’s crazy, but it seems almost personal.

Maybe Kupp pisssed off Kelly Stafford.

Agree that he didn’t lose his ability overnight and agree that they have other players they can use as blockers. Maybe a decoy thing but hard to be a decoy without getting targets. Very odd.

Wouldn't be the first.

This is how it usually happens. That's why they call it "falling off a cliff"... it's sudden... lot of bodies down there.

it never happens this fast, like literally never.

How fast? When was his "triple crown" year? He hasn't been the primary target for 2 yrs now.

Google "Shaun Alexander" (jus the first example that comes to mind).

 

[Dizzy]

In his last 4 games he has 10 targets for 5 receptions and 82 yards...he used to get that in a quarter a few years ago...it's not like he is in a slump...they have phased him out during important games.

They phased him that last half of the season. It was obvious that Puka took over the marquee role and that Kupp was no longer the man. It was painfully obvious watching the games.

It really doesn't make sense. Like Puka being the clear #1 is fine, but Kupp having 2.5 targets a game over the last month is just a waste of Kupp's talent.

Is he still getting the same separation? Maybe they see a drop off in his skills.

Gotta believe that has to do with this...makes too much sense not to.

I honestly don't see how that makes any sense. You don't lose that much ability, speed or quickness in two months, only explanation would be if you have some sort of injury.

When you look at the 7 games after he came back from his injury but before this 4 game skid he had 64 targets for 45 receptions for 510 yards and 5 TDs and that was with Puka playing...gotta believe there is a good chance he is playing injured right now.

But if that’s true, they have to have other players who could block and collect zero targets. I know it’s crazy, but it seems almost personal.

Maybe Kupp pisssed off Kelly Stafford.

Agree that he didn’t lose his ability overnight and agree that they have other players they can use as blockers. Maybe a decoy thing but hard to be a decoy without getting targets. Very odd.

Honestly, at the risk of acting like I know more than McVay and co. I think its severely hurt the offense to use Kupp in this way. There is ZERO chance he's suddenly washed. He just isn't be used, and its poor playcalling in my eyes. Kupp is still at least a solid #2 WR. You can't tell DeMarcus Robinson or Tutu Atwell (who I think is underrated) are more deserving of targets.

Sean McVay is an excellent HC, but this usage of Kupp has absolutely made their offense easier to defend. Not counting the week 18 game where the starters didn't play, the offense hasn't topped 20 points in any of the last 4 games. That's a problem. The last game they did, was also the last game Kupp had more than 3 targets, and he went for 5-92-1.

Come on... you know more about Cooper Kupp and the LA Rams offense than Sean McVay? OK.

 

[travdogg]

In his last 4 games he has 10 targets for 5 receptions and 82 yards...he used to get that in a quarter a few years ago...it's not like he is in a slump...they have phased him out during important games.

They phased him that last half of the season. It was obvious that Puka took over the marquee role and that Kupp was no longer the man. It was painfully obvious watching the games.

It really doesn't make sense. Like Puka being the clear #1 is fine, but Kupp having 2.5 targets a game over the last month is just a waste of Kupp's talent.

Is he still getting the same separation? Maybe they see a drop off in his skills.

Gotta believe that has to do with this...makes too much sense not to.

I honestly don't see how that makes any sense. You don't lose that much ability, speed or quickness in two months, only explanation would be if you have some sort of injury.

When you look at the 7 games after he came back from his injury but before this 4 game skid he had 64 targets for 45 receptions for 510 yards and 5 TDs and that was with Puka playing...gotta believe there is a good chance he is playing injured right now.

But if that’s true, they have to have other players who could block and collect zero targets. I know it’s crazy, but it seems almost personal.

Maybe Kupp pisssed off Kelly Stafford.

Agree that he didn’t lose his ability overnight and agree that they have other players they can use as blockers. Maybe a decoy thing but hard to be a decoy without getting targets. Very odd.

Honestly, at the risk of acting like I know more than McVay and co. I think its severely hurt the offense to use Kupp in this way. There is ZERO chance he's suddenly washed. He just isn't be used, and its poor playcalling in my eyes. Kupp is still at least a solid #2 WR. You can't tell DeMarcus Robinson or Tutu Atwell (who I think is underrated) are more deserving of targets.

Sean McVay is an excellent HC, but this usage of Kupp has absolutely made their offense easier to defend. Not counting the week 18 game where the starters didn't play, the offense hasn't topped 20 points in any of the last 4 games. That's a problem. The last game they did, was also the last game Kupp had more than 3 targets, and he went for 5-92-1.

Come on... you know more about Cooper Kupp and the LA Rams offense than Sean McVay? OK.

That's not really what I was saying. I was saying that McVay is an excellent coach and playcaller, so I hate to question him, but I think its been a mistake to scale back Kupp like they have, and that the evidence has shown up in the offense not really being all that good during this stretch.

 

[Boston]

In his last 4 games he has 10 targets for 5 receptions and 82 yards...he used to get that in a quarter a few years ago...it's not like he is in a slump...they have phased him out during important games.

They phased him that last half of the season. It was obvious that Puka took over the marquee role and that Kupp was no longer the man. It was painfully obvious watching the games.

It really doesn't make sense. Like Puka being the clear #1 is fine, but Kupp having 2.5 targets a game over the last month is just a waste of Kupp's talent.

Is he still getting the same separation? Maybe they see a drop off in his skills.

Gotta believe that has to do with this...makes too much sense not to.

I honestly don't see how that makes any sense. You don't lose that much ability, speed or quickness in two months, only explanation would be if you have some sort of injury.

When you look at the 7 games after he came back from his injury but before this 4 game skid he had 64 targets for 45 receptions for 510 yards and 5 TDs and that was with Puka playing...gotta believe there is a good chance he is playing injured right now.

But if that’s true, they have to have other players who could block and collect zero targets. I know it’s crazy, but it seems almost personal.

Maybe Kupp pisssed off Kelly Stafford.

Agree that he didn’t lose his ability overnight and agree that they have other players they can use as blockers. Maybe a decoy thing but hard to be a decoy without getting targets. Very odd.

Honestly, at the risk of acting like I know more than McVay and co. I think its severely hurt the offense to use Kupp in this way. There is ZERO chance he's suddenly washed. He just isn't be used, and its poor playcalling in my eyes. Kupp is still at least a solid #2 WR. You can't tell DeMarcus Robinson or Tutu Atwell (who I think is underrated) are more deserving of targets.

Sean McVay is an excellent HC, but this usage of Kupp has absolutely made their offense easier to defend. Not counting the week 18 game where the starters didn't play, the offense hasn't topped 20 points in any of the last 4 games. That's a problem. The last game they did, was also the last game Kupp had more than 3 targets, and he went for 5-92-1.

Come on... you know more about Cooper Kupp and the LA Rams offense than Sean McVay? OK.

That's not really what I was saying. I was saying that McVay is an excellent coach and playcaller, so I hate to question him, but I think its been a mistake to scale back Kupp like they have, and that the evidence has shown up in the offense not really being all that good during this stretch.

When you look at the stats it's interesting because it's not like another WR or TE is picking-up the slack from Kupp...it has become a two-man offense with Nacua in the receiving game and Kyren Williams running the ball.

 

[brewer]

In his last 4 games he has 10 targets for 5 receptions and 82 yards...he used to get that in a quarter a few years ago...it's not like he is in a slump...they have phased him out during important games.

They phased him that last half of the season. It was obvious that Puka took over the marquee role and that Kupp was no longer the man. It was painfully obvious watching the games.

It really doesn't make sense. Like Puka being the clear #1 is fine, but Kupp having 2.5 targets a game over the last month is just a waste of Kupp's talent.

Is he still getting the same separation? Maybe they see a drop off in his skills.

Gotta believe that has to do with this...makes too much sense not to.

I honestly don't see how that makes any sense. You don't lose that much ability, speed or quickness in two months, only explanation would be if you have some sort of injury.

When you look at the 7 games after he came back from his injury but before this 4 game skid he had 64 targets for 45 receptions for 510 yards and 5 TDs and that was with Puka playing...gotta believe there is a good chance he is playing injured right now.

But if that’s true, they have to have other players who could block and collect zero targets. I know it’s crazy, but it seems almost personal.

Maybe Kupp pisssed off Kelly Stafford.

Agree that he didn’t lose his ability overnight and agree that they have other players they can use as blockers. Maybe a decoy thing but hard to be a decoy without getting targets. Very odd.

Honestly, at the risk of acting like I know more than McVay and co. I think its severely hurt the offense to use Kupp in this way. There is ZERO chance he's suddenly washed. He just isn't be used, and its poor playcalling in my eyes. Kupp is still at least a solid #2 WR. You can't tell DeMarcus Robinson or Tutu Atwell (who I think is underrated) are more deserving of targets.

Sean McVay is an excellent HC, but this usage of Kupp has absolutely made their offense easier to defend. Not counting the week 18 game where the starters didn't play, the offense hasn't topped 20 points in any of the last 4 games. That's a problem. The last game they did, was also the last game Kupp had more than 3 targets, and he went for 5-92-1.

Come on... you know more about Cooper Kupp and the LA Rams offense than Sean McVay? OK.

That's not really what I was saying. I was saying that McVay is an excellent coach and playcaller, so I hate to question him, but I think its been a mistake to scale back Kupp like they have, and that the evidence has shown up in the offense not really being all that good during this stretch.

When you look at the stats it's interesting because it's not like another WR or TE is picking-up the slack from Kupp...it has become a two-man offense with Nacua in the receiving game and Kyren Williams running the ball.

In the playoff game, I would disagree. Higbee was cooking before he got hurt. But anyway, the combined TE numbers were 9 catches for over 100 yards and a TD.

 

[Boston]

In his last 4 games he has 10 targets for 5 receptions and 82 yards...he used to get that in a quarter a few years ago...it's not like he is in a slump...they have phased him out during important games.

They phased him that last half of the season. It was obvious that Puka took over the marquee role and that Kupp was no longer the man. It was painfully obvious watching the games.

It really doesn't make sense. Like Puka being the clear #1 is fine, but Kupp having 2.5 targets a game over the last month is just a waste of Kupp's talent.

Is he still getting the same separation? Maybe they see a drop off in his skills.

Gotta believe that has to do with this...makes too much sense not to.

I honestly don't see how that makes any sense. You don't lose that much ability, speed or quickness in two months, only explanation would be if you have some sort of injury.

When you look at the 7 games after he came back from his injury but before this 4 game skid he had 64 targets for 45 receptions for 510 yards and 5 TDs and that was with Puka playing...gotta believe there is a good chance he is playing injured right now.

But if that’s true, they have to have other players who could block and collect zero targets. I know it’s crazy, but it seems almost personal.

Maybe Kupp pisssed off Kelly Stafford.

Agree that he didn’t lose his ability overnight and agree that they have other players they can use as blockers. Maybe a decoy thing but hard to be a decoy without getting targets. Very odd.

Honestly, at the risk of acting like I know more than McVay and co. I think its severely hurt the offense to use Kupp in this way. There is ZERO chance he's suddenly washed. He just isn't be used, and its poor playcalling in my eyes. Kupp is still at least a solid #2 WR. You can't tell DeMarcus Robinson or Tutu Atwell (who I think is underrated) are more deserving of targets.

Sean McVay is an excellent HC, but this usage of Kupp has absolutely made their offense easier to defend. Not counting the week 18 game where the starters didn't play, the offense hasn't topped 20 points in any of the last 4 games. That's a problem. The last game they did, was also the last game Kupp had more than 3 targets, and he went for 5-92-1.

Come on... you know more about Cooper Kupp and the LA Rams offense than Sean McVay? OK.

That's not really what I was saying. I was saying that McVay is an excellent coach and playcaller, so I hate to question him, but I think its been a mistake to scale back Kupp like they have, and that the evidence has shown up in the offense not really being all that good during this stretch.

When you look at the stats it's interesting because it's not like another WR or TE is picking-up the slack from Kupp...it has become a two-man offense with Nacua in the receiving game and Kyren Williams running the ball.

In the playoff game, I would disagree. Higbee was cooking before he got hurt. But anyway, the combined TE numbers were 9 catches for over 100 yards and a TD.

I would agree with that...in those 4 games there have been almost no contributions from other WRs and only 1 game where the TE was involved.

 

[Gally]

When you look at the stats it's interesting because it's not like another WR or TE is picking-up the slack from Kupp...it has become a two-man offense with Nacua in the receiving game and Kyren Williams running the ball.

Which is no different than what it was with Kupp in his hay day. Kupp dominated targets and there really wasn't much of a #2. It's the same now but it has switched from Kupp to Puka.

 

[travdogg]

When you look at the stats it's interesting because it's not like another WR or TE is picking-up the slack from Kupp...it has become a two-man offense with Nacua in the receiving game and Kyren Williams running the ball.

Which is no different than what it was with Kupp in his hay day. Kupp dominated targets and there really wasn't much of a #2. It's the same now but it has switched from Kupp to Puka.

That's not really the case other than 2022, when the entire offense fell apart when Stafford went down.

Van Jefferson (who is a FAR worse WR than current Kupp) had 800-6 in Kupp's triple crown year, and he was arguably the #3, as the #2 role was split between Woods (who played 9 games) and then Beckham (who played 7) they had almost no overlap and combined for 800-9, and Beckham balled out in the playoffs. Last year, Kupp was on a 1000-7 pace when Puka put up 1400-6.

 

[Boston]

When you look at the stats it's interesting because it's not like another WR or TE is picking-up the slack from Kupp...it has become a two-man offense with Nacua in the receiving game and Kyren Williams running the ball.

Which is no different than what it was with Kupp in his hay day. Kupp dominated targets and there really wasn't much of a #2. It's the same now but it has switched from Kupp to Puka.

Looking at the stats there was only 1 year where that happened (2021)...in 2019 and 2020 (I'm using 2019-2021 as his heyday) Robert Woods actually had more targets than him...even in 2021 Woods had 69 targets thru the first 9 games (7.67 per game) before he got banged up and pretty much every pass went to Kupp after that....Kupp was definitely the alpha in 2021 (that is putting it mildly) but Woods was not invisible like Kupp is now.

 

[Dizzy]

In his last 4 games he has 10 targets for 5 receptions and 82 yards...he used to get that in a quarter a few years ago...it's not like he is in a slump...they have phased him out during important games.

They phased him that last half of the season. It was obvious that Puka took over the marquee role and that Kupp was no longer the man. It was painfully obvious watching the games.

It really doesn't make sense. Like Puka being the clear #1 is fine, but Kupp having 2.5 targets a game over the last month is just a waste of Kupp's talent.

Is he still getting the same separation? Maybe they see a drop off in his skills.

Gotta believe that has to do with this...makes too much sense not to.

I honestly don't see how that makes any sense. You don't lose that much ability, speed or quickness in two months, only explanation would be if you have some sort of injury.

When you look at the 7 games after he came back from his injury but before this 4 game skid he had 64 targets for 45 receptions for 510 yards and 5 TDs and that was with Puka playing...gotta believe there is a good chance he is playing injured right now.

But if that’s true, they have to have other players who could block and collect zero targets. I know it’s crazy, but it seems almost personal.

Maybe Kupp pisssed off Kelly Stafford.

Agree that he didn’t lose his ability overnight and agree that they have other players they can use as blockers. Maybe a decoy thing but hard to be a decoy without getting targets. Very odd.

Honestly, at the risk of acting like I know more than McVay and co. I think its severely hurt the offense to use Kupp in this way. There is ZERO chance he's suddenly washed. He just isn't be used, and its poor playcalling in my eyes. Kupp is still at least a solid #2 WR. You can't tell DeMarcus Robinson or Tutu Atwell (who I think is underrated) are more deserving of targets.

Sean McVay is an excellent HC, but this usage of Kupp has absolutely made their offense easier to defend. Not counting the week 18 game where the starters didn't play, the offense hasn't topped 20 points in any of the last 4 games. That's a problem. The last game they did, was also the last game Kupp had more than 3 targets, and he went for 5-92-1.

Come on... you know more about Cooper Kupp and the LA Rams offense than Sean McVay? OK.

That's not really what I was saying. I was saying that McVay is an excellent coach and playcaller, so I hate to question him, but I think its been a mistake to scale back Kupp like they have, and that the evidence has shown up in the offense not really being all that good during this stretch.

I think the answer may be found within your statement here. McVay has been there for the whole "Cooper Kupp" experience... so, something must have happened where Kupp either - no longer separates like he used to (injury, age, both) or teams scheme to take him away.

 

[travdogg]

In his last 4 games he has 10 targets for 5 receptions and 82 yards...he used to get that in a quarter a few years ago...it's not like he is in a slump...they have phased him out during important games.

They phased him that last half of the season. It was obvious that Puka took over the marquee role and that Kupp was no longer the man. It was painfully obvious watching the games.

It really doesn't make sense. Like Puka being the clear #1 is fine, but Kupp having 2.5 targets a game over the last month is just a waste of Kupp's talent.

Is he still getting the same separation? Maybe they see a drop off in his skills.

Gotta believe that has to do with this...makes too much sense not to.

I honestly don't see how that makes any sense. You don't lose that much ability, speed or quickness in two months, only explanation would be if you have some sort of injury.

When you look at the 7 games after he came back from his injury but before this 4 game skid he had 64 targets for 45 receptions for 510 yards and 5 TDs and that was with Puka playing...gotta believe there is a good chance he is playing injured right now.

But if that’s true, they have to have other players who could block and collect zero targets. I know it’s crazy, but it seems almost personal.

Maybe Kupp pisssed off Kelly Stafford.

Agree that he didn’t lose his ability overnight and agree that they have other players they can use as blockers. Maybe a decoy thing but hard to be a decoy without getting targets. Very odd.

Honestly, at the risk of acting like I know more than McVay and co. I think its severely hurt the offense to use Kupp in this way. There is ZERO chance he's suddenly washed. He just isn't be used, and its poor playcalling in my eyes. Kupp is still at least a solid #2 WR. You can't tell DeMarcus Robinson or Tutu Atwell (who I think is underrated) are more deserving of targets.

Sean McVay is an excellent HC, but this usage of Kupp has absolutely made their offense easier to defend. Not counting the week 18 game where the starters didn't play, the offense hasn't topped 20 points in any of the last 4 games. That's a problem. The last game they did, was also the last game Kupp had more than 3 targets, and he went for 5-92-1.

Come on... you know more about Cooper Kupp and the LA Rams offense than Sean McVay? OK.

That's not really what I was saying. I was saying that McVay is an excellent coach and playcaller, so I hate to question him, but I think its been a mistake to scale back Kupp like they have, and that the evidence has shown up in the offense not really being all that good during this stretch.

I think the answer may be found within your statement here. McVay has been there for the whole "Cooper Kupp" experience... so, something must have happened where Kupp either - no longer separates like he used to (injury, age, both) or teams scheme to take him away.

If its the former, why is it suddenly happening these last 4 games, and not when he was still an effective centerpiece in October? No injury has been reported and he's not limping around? If its the latter, why would DCs not be treating Puka as the guy to do that to?

 

[JohnnyU]

I think he's certainly "done" in fantasy.

He's 31.5. He'll hit 32 this summer.

I’m 65 and entering my prime.

 

[Hoh]

In his last 4 games he has 10 targets for 5 receptions and 82 yards...he used to get that in a quarter a few years ago...it's not like he is in a slump...they have phased him out during important games.

They phased him that last half of the season. It was obvious that Puka took over the marquee role and that Kupp was no longer the man. It was painfully obvious watching the games.

It really doesn't make sense. Like Puka being the clear #1 is fine, but Kupp having 2.5 targets a game over the last month is just a waste of Kupp's talent.

Is he still getting the same separation? Maybe they see a drop off in his skills.

Gotta believe that has to do with this...makes too much sense not to.

I honestly don't see how that makes any sense. You don't lose that much ability, speed or quickness in two months, only explanation would be if you have some sort of injury.

When you look at the 7 games after he came back from his injury but before this 4 game skid he had 64 targets for 45 receptions for 510 yards and 5 TDs and that was with Puka playing...gotta believe there is a good chance he is playing injured right now.

But if that’s true, they have to have other players who could block and collect zero targets. I know it’s crazy, but it seems almost personal.

Maybe Kupp pisssed off Kelly Stafford.

Agree that he didn’t lose his ability overnight and agree that they have other players they can use as blockers. Maybe a decoy thing but hard to be a decoy without getting targets. Very odd.

Honestly, at the risk of acting like I know more than McVay and co. I think its severely hurt the offense to use Kupp in this way. There is ZERO chance he's suddenly washed. He just isn't be used, and its poor playcalling in my eyes. Kupp is still at least a solid #2 WR. You can't tell DeMarcus Robinson or Tutu Atwell (who I think is underrated) are more deserving of targets.

Sean McVay is an excellent HC, but this usage of Kupp has absolutely made their offense easier to defend. Not counting the week 18 game where the starters didn't play, the offense hasn't topped 20 points in any of the last 4 games. That's a problem. The last game they did, was also the last game Kupp had more than 3 targets, and he went for 5-92-1.

Come on... you know more about Cooper Kupp and the LA Rams offense than Sean McVay? OK.

That's not really what I was saying. I was saying that McVay is an excellent coach and playcaller, so I hate to question him, but I think its been a mistake to scale back Kupp like they have, and that the evidence has shown up in the offense not really being all that good during this stretch.

I think the answer may be found within your statement here. McVay has been there for the whole "Cooper Kupp" experience... so, something must have happened where Kupp either - no longer separates like he used to (injury, age, both) or teams scheme to take him away.

If its the former, why is it suddenly happening these last 4 games, and not when he was still an effective centerpiece in October? No injury has been reported and he's not limping around? If its the latter, why would DCs not be treating Puka as the guy to do that to?

My conspiracy theory of the day is they are keeping him injury free to get max trade value.

 

[travdogg]

In his last 4 games he has 10 targets for 5 receptions and 82 yards...he used to get that in a quarter a few years ago...it's not like he is in a slump...they have phased him out during important games.

They phased him that last half of the season. It was obvious that Puka took over the marquee role and that Kupp was no longer the man. It was painfully obvious watching the games.

It really doesn't make sense. Like Puka being the clear #1 is fine, but Kupp having 2.5 targets a game over the last month is just a waste of Kupp's talent.

Is he still getting the same separation? Maybe they see a drop off in his skills.

Gotta believe that has to do with this...makes too much sense not to.

I honestly don't see how that makes any sense. You don't lose that much ability, speed or quickness in two months, only explanation would be if you have some sort of injury.

When you look at the 7 games after he came back from his injury but before this 4 game skid he had 64 targets for 45 receptions for 510 yards and 5 TDs and that was with Puka playing...gotta believe there is a good chance he is playing injured right now.

But if that’s true, they have to have other players who could block and collect zero targets. I know it’s crazy, but it seems almost personal.

Maybe Kupp pisssed off Kelly Stafford.

Agree that he didn’t lose his ability overnight and agree that they have other players they can use as blockers. Maybe a decoy thing but hard to be a decoy without getting targets. Very odd.

Honestly, at the risk of acting like I know more than McVay and co. I think its severely hurt the offense to use Kupp in this way. There is ZERO chance he's suddenly washed. He just isn't be used, and its poor playcalling in my eyes. Kupp is still at least a solid #2 WR. You can't tell DeMarcus Robinson or Tutu Atwell (who I think is underrated) are more deserving of targets.

Sean McVay is an excellent HC, but this usage of Kupp has absolutely made their offense easier to defend. Not counting the week 18 game where the starters didn't play, the offense hasn't topped 20 points in any of the last 4 games. That's a problem. The last game they did, was also the last game Kupp had more than 3 targets, and he went for 5-92-1.

Come on... you know more about Cooper Kupp and the LA Rams offense than Sean McVay? OK.

That's not really what I was saying. I was saying that McVay is an excellent coach and playcaller, so I hate to question him, but I think its been a mistake to scale back Kupp like they have, and that the evidence has shown up in the offense not really being all that good during this stretch.

I think the answer may be found within your statement here. McVay has been there for the whole "Cooper Kupp" experience... so, something must have happened where Kupp either - no longer separates like he used to (injury, age, both) or teams scheme to take him away.

If its the former, why is it suddenly happening these last 4 games, and not when he was still an effective centerpiece in October? No injury has been reported and he's not limping around? If its the latter, why would DCs not be treating Puka as the guy to do that to?

My conspiracy theory of the day is they are keeping him injury free to get max trade value.

I can't see how that would make sense. Max trade value would be if he was putting up big numbers to help win games. I can't imagine these last 4 weeks would be doing anything to help his value. Its arguable he'd have lost less value if he'd been on IR these last 4 weeks.

 

[Hoh]

In his last 4 games he has 10 targets for 5 receptions and 82 yards...he used to get that in a quarter a few years ago...it's not like he is in a slump...they have phased him out during important games.

They phased him that last half of the season. It was obvious that Puka took over the marquee role and that Kupp was no longer the man. It was painfully obvious watching the games.

It really doesn't make sense. Like Puka being the clear #1 is fine, but Kupp having 2.5 targets a game over the last month is just a waste of Kupp's talent.

Is he still getting the same separation? Maybe they see a drop off in his skills.

Gotta believe that has to do with this...makes too much sense not to.

I honestly don't see how that makes any sense. You don't lose that much ability, speed or quickness in two months, only explanation would be if you have some sort of injury.

When you look at the 7 games after he came back from his injury but before this 4 game skid he had 64 targets for 45 receptions for 510 yards and 5 TDs and that was with Puka playing...gotta believe there is a good chance he is playing injured right now.

But if that’s true, they have to have other players who could block and collect zero targets. I know it’s crazy, but it seems almost personal.

Maybe Kupp pisssed off Kelly Stafford.

Agree that he didn’t lose his ability overnight and agree that they have other players they can use as blockers. Maybe a decoy thing but hard to be a decoy without getting targets. Very odd.

Honestly, at the risk of acting like I know more than McVay and co. I think its severely hurt the offense to use Kupp in this way. There is ZERO chance he's suddenly washed. He just isn't be used, and its poor playcalling in my eyes. Kupp is still at least a solid #2 WR. You can't tell DeMarcus Robinson or Tutu Atwell (who I think is underrated) are more deserving of targets.

Sean McVay is an excellent HC, but this usage of Kupp has absolutely made their offense easier to defend. Not counting the week 18 game where the starters didn't play, the offense hasn't topped 20 points in any of the last 4 games. That's a problem. The last game they did, was also the last game Kupp had more than 3 targets, and he went for 5-92-1.

Come on... you know more about Cooper Kupp and the LA Rams offense than Sean McVay? OK.

That's not really what I was saying. I was saying that McVay is an excellent coach and playcaller, so I hate to question him, but I think its been a mistake to scale back Kupp like they have, and that the evidence has shown up in the offense not really being all that good during this stretch.

I think the answer may be found within your statement here. McVay has been there for the whole "Cooper Kupp" experience... so, something must have happened where Kupp either - no longer separates like he used to (injury, age, both) or teams scheme to take him away.

If its the former, why is it suddenly happening these last 4 games, and not when he was still an effective centerpiece in October? No injury has been reported and he's not limping around? If its the latter, why would DCs not be treating Puka as the guy to do that to?

My conspiracy theory of the day is they are keeping him injury free to get max trade value.

I can't see how that would make sense. Max trade value would be if he was putting up big numbers to help win games. I can't imagine these last 4 weeks would be doing anything to help his value. Its arguable he'd have lost less value if he'd been on IR these last 4 weeks.

I know but I’m speculating. Perhaps the gamble is a healthy Kupp gets more trade value with his past production in mind than a “productive but injured now” Kupp gets. The whole thing is weird.

 

[Faust]

Cooper Kupp plans to play next season, unsure of Rams future

 

[Insein]

Rams plan on Trading Cooper Kupp this off-season.

x.com

x.com

 

[Mitchie]

Will be interesting to see where he ends up, sure he's lost a half step maybe but don't think he's washed.

 

[icehouse]

Puka owners rejoice

 

[menobrown]

Puka owners rejoice

I'd hold up until we know Stafford's not heading out as well.

 

[Boston]

Puka owners rejoice

I'd hold up until we know Stafford's not heading out as well.

Agreed as well as who are they replacing Kupp with if they do trade him…McVay likes his offensive toys and who knows who he will bring in.

 

[travdogg]

Will be interesting to see where he ends up, sure he's lost a half step maybe but don't think he's washed.

Agreed. I have no idea why they stopped using him down the stretch, I assume he was just banged up more than we knew, but its unlikely he's washed as he still looked solid up until the last few weeks. He had 80+ yards or a TD in all but 1 game until that point.

ETA: This isn't me saying the Rams are wrong to trade him (I would assume they could get a day 2 pick still, given WR desperation) if they've decided his usage should be what it was down the stretch, he's not worth the money for them. I would also argue, assuming they re-sign him, that they have a very underrated player in Tutu Atwell.

ETA2: I already see the usual suspect names being talked about (Bills, KC) but the teams that really makes a lot of sense to me would be Washington or maybe staying in the same building and going to the Chargers.

 

[menobrown]

Puka owners rejoice

I'd hold up until we know Stafford's not heading out as well.

Agreed as well as who are they replacing Kupp with if they do trade him…McVay likes his offensive toys and who knows who he will bring in.

Good point, do recall a lot of credible rumors last year that the Rams tried moving up in the draft until Bowers went and then they stopped.

 

[higgins]

Puka owners rejoice

I'd hold up until we know Stafford's not heading out as well.

Agreed as well as who are they replacing Kupp with if they do trade him…McVay likes his offensive toys and who knows who he will bring in.

Kupp blocked more than he caught as the year progressed — rookie WR Jordan Whittington is a fierce, physical blocker — he’ll be on the field a lot.

 

[Mitchie]

think liking both Whittington and Atwell played into the decision.

 

[pinkstapler]

Puka owners rejoice

I'd hold up until we know Stafford's not heading out as well.

Agreed as well as who are they replacing Kupp with if they do trade him…McVay likes his offensive toys and who knows who he will bring in.

Good point, do recall a lot of credible rumors last year that the Rams tried moving up in the draft until Bowers went and then they stopped.

Wouldn't say any this year are of Bowers level; but it is a good and deep year for tight end if they were still looking to fill that hole.

 

[menobrown]

Puka owners rejoice

I'd hold up until we know Stafford's not heading out as well.

Agreed as well as who are they replacing Kupp with if they do trade him…McVay likes his offensive toys and who knows who he will bring in.

Good point, do recall a lot of credible rumors last year that the Rams tried moving up in the draft until Bowers went and then they stopped.

Wouldn't say any this year are of Bowers level; but it is a good and deep year for tight end if they were still looking to fill that hole.

Agree totally on this years TE class but I was under the impression their reported interest in Bowers was more about adding a weapon then a TE. Kupp and Puka do a lot of blocking and they had already signed Colby Parkinson to a nice deal. I feel like they viewed Bowers as basically a bigger and perhaps faster version of these Puka/Kupp. He was obviously incredible last year but can you imagine him being used like prime Kupp/Puka?

 

[metoo]

Will be interesting to see where he ends up, sure he's lost a half step maybe but don't think he's washed.

Could be Thielen 2.0.

 

[Judge Smails]

Orlovsky reporting that Houston (Rams coordinator, health of Diggs/Dell), Cincy (doubtful can sign both Chase and Higgins) and Denver (perfect system fit) are best bets outside of SF who they would never trade him to

 

[eighsse2]

Orlovsky reporting that Houston (Rams coordinator, health of Diggs/Dell), Cincy (doubtful can sign both Chase and Higgins) and Denver (perfect system fit) are best bets outside of SF who they would never trade him to

No thanks!
-- Cincy

For $10M cap hit? Sure. Not $29M.

 

[menobrown]

Orlovsky reporting that Houston (Rams coordinator, health of Diggs/Dell), Cincy (doubtful can sign both Chase and Higgins) and Denver (perfect system fit) are best bets outside of SF who they would never trade him to

No thanks!
-- Cincy

For $10M cap hit? Sure. Not $29M.

FWIW would be a $20M cap hit to the acquiring team if he's traded before March 15th, $12.5 if he's traded after.

Still, no small thing for Cincy, might as well just tag Tee Higgins a second time and pay $6-14M more.

I've no idea what Dan is basing Denver on being a perfect fit on. Hard disagree.

Houston is perfect though, was saying so in Steelers thread earlier today.

Green Bay is an interesting one as well, considering health status of Watson and Doubs and remaining in the McVay tree.

 

[msudaisy26]

Dark horse teams. The Commanders and Cowboys.

 

[Faust]

Cooper Kupp trade fits: Six logical landing spots for former Super Bowl MVP

 

[Willie Mays Hayes]

Drake Maye says come on down!

 

[Major]

How much do you think the Rams asking for Kupp? 3rd round pick?

 

[higgins]

How much do you think the Rams asking for Kupp? 3rd round pick?

I’d think it would have to be tied to how much of Kupp’s contract $ the Rams would have to eat, without which a trade with another team wouldn’t make sense for the other team (they’d wait for him to be cut).

 

[menobrown]

How much do you think the Rams asking for Kupp? 3rd round pick?

In-season they supposedly wanted something on par with what Jets paid for Davante Adams, so a conditional third. For a myriad of reasons that price is almost assuredly less now, how much less depends on if Rams eat his $7.5m roster bonus.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

How much do you think the Rams asking for Kupp? 3rd round pick?

In-season they supposedly wanted something on par with what Jets paid for Davante Adams, so a conditional third. For a myriad of reasons that price is almost assuredly less now, how much less depends on if Rams eat his $7.5m roster bonus.

They'll have to eat the roster bonus to get anything meaningful for him at this point, IMO. Comes due in, like, 10 days, IIRC? It seems pretty clear they're hoping to offload before that hits, and interested teams will understand that.

 

[menobrown]

How much do you think the Rams asking for Kupp? 3rd round pick?

In-season they supposedly wanted something on par with what Jets paid for Davante Adams, so a conditional third. For a myriad of reasons that price is almost assuredly less now, how much less depends on if Rams eat his $7.5m roster bonus.

They'll have to eat the roster bonus to get anything meaningful for him at this point, IMO. Comes due in, like, 10 days, IIRC? It seems pretty clear they're hoping to offload before that hits, and interested teams will understand that.

March 15th is when it becomes due.

Report yesterday was they are willing to eat it to help their return.

ETA-I also get strong sense they will work with him on the destination, which could impact the return. He won't get to pick his spot, but I don't think they will send him some place he wants no part off either.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

How much do you think the Rams asking for Kupp? 3rd round pick?

In-season they supposedly wanted something on par with what Jets paid for Davante Adams, so a conditional third. For a myriad of reasons that price is almost assuredly less now, how much less depends on if Rams eat his $7.5m roster bonus.

They'll have to eat the roster bonus to get anything meaningful for him at this point, IMO. Comes due in, like, 10 days, IIRC? It seems pretty clear they're hoping to offload before that hits, and interested teams will understand that.

March 15th is when it becomes due.

Report yesterday was they are willing to eat it to help their return.

ETA-I also get strong sense they will work with him on the destination, which could impact the return. He won't get to pick his spot, but I don't think they will send him some place he wants no part off either.

Yeah, can't imagine they're just going to send him to NFL Siberia, sight unseen.