Rams Release Super Bowl MVP Cooper Kupp After Signing Davante Adams

Rams Part Ways with Cooper Kupp Following Davante Adams Acquisition

The Los Angeles Rams have officially released wide receiver Cooper Kupp, the team announced Wednesday. This major roster move comes just days after the organization agreed to sign six-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Davante Adams to a two-year deal, signaling a significant shift in the Rams' offensive strategy.

Financial Implications of Kupp's Release

The Rams have designated Kupp a post-June 1 cut, which has important salary cap implications. Los Angeles will carry his full $29.78 million cap hit until June 1, after which they will take dead cap hits of $14.78 million in 2025 and $7.48 million in 2026. This financial maneuver will ultimately save the team $15 million in cap space for next season.

Kupp's Legacy with the Rams

Kupp, 31, spent his entire eight-year NFL career with the Rams after being selected in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft out of Eastern Washington. He was part of head coach Sean McVay's first draft class, helping establish the foundation for the team's offensive success over the past several seasons.

McVay recently expressed his deep appreciation for Kupp on the "Fitz & Whit" podcast, saying, "This guy's changed my life. It's uniquely special because my first year as a head coach coincided with his rookie year. I'm a better human, I'm a better coach and I'm a better person because of the influence Cooper Kupp's had on me. His legacy in my life and as a Ram is cemented forever."

Record-Breaking 2021 Season and Super Bowl MVP

Kupp's most remarkable season came in 2021, when he achieved the rare triple crown of receiving, leading the NFL in receptions (145), receiving yards (1,947) and receiving touchdowns (16). His extraordinary performance earned him his only Pro Bowl selection and the NFL's Offensive Player of the Year award.

The pinnacle of Kupp's career came when he capped that season with eight catches for 92 yards and two touchdowns in the Rams' Super Bowl victory over the Cincinnati Bengals, earning him the Super Bowl MVP award.

Recent Injury Struggles

Following his phenomenal 2021 campaign, Kupp signed a three-year contract extension worth $80.1 million. However, he has battled injuries in the three seasons since, appearing in just 33 games. During the 2024 season, Kupp played in 12 games, recording 67 catches for 710 yards and six touchdowns.

Kupp's Reaction and Career Statistics

Kupp responded to his release on social media platform X, writing, "Next chapter starts now. Best is yet to come."

Throughout his career with the Rams, Kupp accumulated impressive statistics: 634 receptions, 7,776 receiving yards, and 58 total touchdowns (57 receiving). These numbers firmly establish him as one of the most productive receivers in franchise history.

Looking Ahead: Rams' Receiver Corps with Adams

The addition of Davante Adams and release of Kupp represents a significant reshaping of the Rams' receiving corps. Adams, known for his route-running precision and consistency, will likely step into a primary role in McVay's offense alongside other receivers like Puka Nacua.

As the NFL free agency period continues, all eyes will be on Kupp's next destination and how the Rams will adjust their offensive scheme around their new star receiver.