Teh Los Angeles Rams are making headlines as they attempt too trade veteran wide receiver Cooper Kupp,a move that could reshape the team’s financial and roster landscape. Kupp, who has been a cornerstone of the Rams’ offense, is due to make $20 million in 2025, a figure that includes a $12.5 million salary and a $7.5 million roster bonus. However,the Rams’ decision to trade him comes with important financial implications,as they may need to absorb a substantial portion of his salary to facilitate the move.
Kupp’s contract, which runs through 2026, includes a $5 million guarantee from last year’s roster bonus. If the Rams cut him, they would owe this amount, but if they trade him, they might need to pay more to incentivize another team to take on his hefty contract. This could involve the Rams trading Kupp along with cash or cap space in exchange for draft picks. Alternatively,they could pay the $7.5 million roster bonus and delay a decision on his non-guaranteed salary, though this could limit Kupp’s options if he’s released late in the offseason.
The Rams’ strategy appears to be aimed at convincing Kupp to accept a reduced salary. If he realizes that no other team is willing to pay him more than what the Rams offer, he might agree to a revised deal. this could involve tearing up the final year of his contract, making him a free agent in March 2026. However, Kupp’s decision to publicly announce the Rams’ intent to trade him suggests he may be less willing to take a pay cut, even if it means earning less elsewhere.
One critical factor in this negotiation is whether the $5 million guarantee includes offset language, which would reduce the Rams’ financial obligation if Kupp signs with another team. While such language is common, the Rams have been known to omit it in certain contracts. Nonetheless of how this plays out, Kupp is set to earn $7.5 million simply by remaining on the roster untill the bonus is due.He may choose to hold firm on his $20 million demand, forcing the Rams to either pay him in full or cut him and absorb the $5 million guarantee.
Key Points of Cooper Kupp’s Contract Situation
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| 2025 Salary | $12.5 million |
| Roster Bonus | $7.5 million (with $5 million guaranteed) |
| Contract Duration | Through 2026 |
| Rams’ Options | Trade kupp with cash/cap space, pay roster bonus, or cut him |
| Kupp’s Leverage | Can refuse a pay cut, forcing Rams to pay $20 million or cut him |
| Potential Outcome | Revised deal with reduced salary or Kupp becomes a free agent in 2026 |
The Rams’ efforts to trade Cooper Kupp highlight the complexities of NFL contracts and the delicate balance between player value and team finances. As the situation unfolds, Kupp’s future remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: his next move will have significant repercussions for both him and the Rams.
