Detroit Lions connected to trade for $80 million All-Pro receiver.
The Detroit Lions are coming off their most successful season in the Super Bowl era, with an impressive 15-2 record. However, it wasn’t enough to secure their first Super Bowl appearance in franchise history, as they were eliminated in the Divisional Round of the playoffs.
After losing their offensive and defensive coordinators, the Lions now face the challenge of improving their team to return even stronger. This task could be difficult, but adding more experienced players with past playoff success might be exactly what Detroit needs.
The Lions have a talented receiving corps led by two-time All-Pro Amon-Ra St. Brown and 2022 first-round pick Jameson Williams. Having a Pro Bowl tight end like Sam LaPorta also adds value. Still, there is room for improvement in the Lions’ roster.
One area in need of attention is the No. 3 receiver role, which was held by Tim Patrick last season. With Patrick set for free agency, the Lions will need to find a new third receiver this offseason.
As ESPN’s NFL insider Jeremy Fowler recently noted, Cooper Kupp might be a perfect fit for Detroit. The Los Angeles Rams are reportedly looking to trade their former All-Pro receiver, and Kupp has already developed a strong connection with Jared Goff from their time together in LA.
“Regarding early teams discussed, the Pittsburgh Steelers considered Kupp during the trade deadline last season, and they still need a receiver. Washington might seek a complement to Terry McLaurin. The Patriots would be wise to consider this given their receiver situation. And here’s a surprise: Detroit Lions. Jared Goff started his career with Kupp. That’s instant chemistry. Doesn’t this feel like a Kansas City Chiefs move?”
ESPN on Cooper Kupp/Detroit Lions trade
Kupp signed a three-year, $80 million contract extension with the Rams in 2022. He still has two years left on his deal and will have a $29.7 million cap hit in 2025 unless the contract is restructured.
On paper, the move makes a lot of sense, particularly if Kupp is looking to compete for another Super Bowl ring. However, the Lions will likely face strong competition in the market for the former Super Bowl MVP.