Numerous Detroit Lions supporters are rightly concentrating on Myles Garrett and his trade demand, yet there’s another possible trade emerging that could include Detroit. Earlier this week, veteran receiver Cooper Kupp of the Los Angeles Rams announced on social media that the Rams have notified him of their plan to trade him this offseason.
“I was told that the team is looking to trade right away and will collaborate with me and my family to find the ideal spot to keep contending for championships,” Kupp tweeted on Monday. “I disagree with the choice and have always thought it would start and finish in LA.” Nonetheless, if there’s one lesson I’ve gained throughout the years: many factors are beyond your control, but it’s your reaction to these situations that will stay in your memory.
The Lions don’t have an urgent requirement for a wide receiver, even though their third starter—Tim Patrick—is about to enter free agency. However, ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler indicated on Tuesday that the Lions might participate in Kupp trade discussions while appearing on Sports Center.
“Regarding the early teams that are being discussed, the Pittsburgh Steelers considered Cooper Kupp during the trade deadline last season.” There continues to be a need in that location. Washington might seek an addition to Terry McLaurin. The Patriots would be unwise to not at least look into this considering their receiving situation. Here are some unexpected elements for you: Detroit Lions. Jared Goff entered the league alongside Cooper Kupp. That’s immediate chemistry. “Doesn’t this seem like a move typical of the Kansas City Chiefs?”
Let’s be clear: this comes off as simple conjecture and linking of ideas from Fowler. The opening of his “report” states, “early teams that individuals are chatting about.” There is no explanation regarding the identity of these individuals or who they’re joking with. He is not indicating anything that implies the Lions have already asked about Kupp. It definitely seems that the only reason the Lions are referenced is due to Goff’s four seasons spent alongside Kupp in Los Angeles. That’s barely sufficient proof to indicate the Lions will participate.
There is also the issue of remuneration. At this moment, Kupp is associated with a rather substantial contract. He has a salary of $12.5 million for 2025 and a $7.5 million roster bonus that is payable on the fifth day of the new league year. This presents a $20 million cap hit for the team that acquires him, though some analysts propose the Rams might agree to absorb part of that. Likewise, Kupp’s 2026 salary is $14.85 million, which includes a $5 million roster bonus; however, none of the money is guaranteed.
Given the size of the contract, Kupp’s impending 32nd birthday at the season’s start, along with injury issues over the past three seasons, it’s improbable the Rams will receive more than a Day 3 draft pick for the veteran receiver. This could render the agreement quite fascinating for a team such as Detroit, but that contract still appears somewhat too restrictive to me.
Detroit could probably re-sign Tim Patrick for significantly less and maintain the dynamic offense they showcased in 2024. Those funds would be more wisely utilized on the defensive side, where the Lions face challenging decisions regarding impending free agents Carlton Davis, Levi Onwuzurike, and Derrick Barnes.