Cooper Kupp to Tampa Bay? Bucs insider gets blunt on trade rumor
Cooper Kupp was linked to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the NFC South team lost Mike Evans and Chris Godwin to injuries on Monday night. The team was quickly mentioned in trade rumors regarding the Rams wide receiver.
The Rams could part ways with Kupp amid a struggling season. But if Tampa Bay wants to make a swing for the veteran receiver, it won't come at an easy price. On Tuesday, FOX Sports analyst Greg Auman explained that the Rams' asking price would be a big obstacle to completing this potential trade.
"Lots of questions about Bucs and trading for Cooper Kupp. He has a history with Liam Coen, and that helps. Rams are asking a lot, and my guess is that other WR-needy teams might be willing to pay more than Tampa Bay. Licht doesn't part with his high draft picks lightly," Auman tweeted on X, formerly Twitter.
"I can see the Bucs trading for a veteran, but more a late-round pick type of deal. There are several available, so it's finding the right fit at the right price. I'd be surprised if they give up a significant pick for short-term help," he tweeted.
Kupp has played two games this season, on Sept. 8 against the Detroit Lions and on Sept. 15 against the Arizona Cardinals. He has caught 18 passes for 147 yards and one receiving touchdown. He's active for the Rams, but his career could take a turn as his name is thrown in trade rumors.
Cooper Kupp injury update: When will Rams WR return to the field?
After dealing with an ankle injury that kept him sidelined through Week 7, Cooper Kupp could be back on the pitch soon. He's expected to be ready to go against the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday Night Football, per Sean McVay.
"It was about return to performance, not necessarily return to play," McVay said about Kupp playing last Sunday. "And hopefully Thursday will represent that for us." (H/T ESPN)
Matthew Stafford talked about the receiver's upcoming return, showing his excitement.
"He's missing being out there, so I'm excited for him," Stafford said. "Excited for our offense, our team. He's a great player and those guys are tough to come by, so when you can get him back, it's always a great thing. I think it's great for that room, too. I mean, just having his presence around, guys love being around him and working with him."
Kupp and the Rams' season has been underwhelming, and they need to turn things around before it's too late.