Rams Release Super Bowl MVP Cooper Kupp After Eight Seasons

LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Rams announced Wednesday that they have officially released wide receiver Cooper Kupp, marking the end of his eight-year tenure with the team. Kupp’s release comes just days after the Rams signed six-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Davante Adams, a move aimed at rejuvenating their offensive lineup.

Kupp, 31, expressed his appreciation for the Rams and their fanbase via social media, stating, “Thank you for everything, Cooper. Next chapter starts now. Best is yet to come.” Earlier in February, Kupp revealed that the Rams informed him they were seeking to trade him, a decision he disagreed with, emphasizing his desire to remain in Los Angeles.

The Rams designated Kupp a post-June cut, which means they will manage a cap hit of $29.78 million until then. However, the move to release him will save the Rams $15 million in cap space for the upcoming season. Still, the team faces dead cap penalties totaling $22.3 million, including $14.78 million in 2025 and $7.48 million in 2026.

Kupp’s career with the Rams began in 2017 when he was selected in the third round of the NFL Draft out of Eastern Washington. Under head coach Sean McVay, Kupp became a vital component of the offense and recorded some of the most prolific stats in franchise history. Notably, in the 2021 season, he led the NFL in receptions (145), receiving yards (1,947), and receiving touchdowns (16), earning him the Offensive Player of the Year award.

<p"This guy's changed my life," McVay reflected on Kupp's impact last month. "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.”

Kupp’s high-water mark came during the Rams’ Super Bowl LVI victory over the Cincinnati Bengals, where he secured MVP honors with two touchdowns, solidifying his status as a franchise hero. However, the past three seasons have seen Kupp plagued by injuries, causing him to miss significant playing time. In the 2024 season, he caught 67 passes for 710 yards and six touchdowns over just 12 games.

Despite his recent struggles and age, Kupp remains a sought-after asset in the NFL. With teams ranging from title contenders to rebuilding franchises likely to pursue him, he still possesses unmatched skills, including precise route-running and reliable hands.

As the Rams shift their focus toward new offensive strategies, they will rely more on emerging stars, particularly Puka Nacua, who has excelled as a receiver since being drafted in 2023. Nacua has credited Kupp for his development, adding to the emotional weight of Kupp’s departure.

Los Angeles is ready to embrace this new chapter, buoyed by the addition of Adams and fresh talent as they turn the page on Kupp’s legacy, while fans reflect on the remarkable journey of their former superstar.