The Los Angeles Rams are expected to continue their youth movement this offseason, though the extent of those changes remains uncertain. One significant move could be trading Cooper Kupp, with Tee Higgins emerging as a potential replacement alongside Puka Nacua.
Kupp revealed on social media that the Rams informed him of their plans to trade him. Meanwhile, the Cincinnati Bengals may struggle to retain Higgins due to other roster priorities, potentially creating an opportunity for the Rams to pursue him in free agency.
Marcus Mosher of The 33rd Team highlighted Higgins as the most talented free-agent receiver to hit the market in a decade, predicting a fierce bidding war among teams in need of a No. 1 wideout. He identified the Rams, Bills, and Ravens as potential suitors willing to make aggressive moves to acquire Higgins.
Mosher projected Higgins would be the second-highest-paid free agent this offseason if he reaches the open market, estimating he could land a three-year, $100 million contract. He also argued it would be unwise for the Bengals to let Higgins walk.
In 2024, Higgins recorded 73 receptions for 911 yards and 10 touchdowns. Over his five-year career, the 6-foot-4 receiver has surpassed 908 yards in four seasons and ranks 10th in touchdown receptions since entering the league—just one spot behind Kupp.
Over The Cap projects the Rams to have $38.3 million available in free agency, a figure that could increase depending on how they handle Kupp’s situation, Matthew Stafford’s contract, and other roster decisions. Meanwhile, Spotrac projects Higgins could command a four-year, $101.7 million deal.
Rams ‘Over’ Cooper Kupp, Matthew Stafford
Cooper Kupp’s departure could pave the way for Matthew Stafford’s exit as well, with the Rams seemingly growing frustrated with the ongoing discussions surrounding their top offensive stars.
“The Rams like Matt Stafford, but they’re getting tired of the constant quarterback speculation and his wife’s public comments. They also weren’t pleased with Cooper Kupp making their trade discussions public,” Colin Cowherd said on The Herd on February 13. “They’re moving on from Kupp, and to some extent, Stafford. They like him, but they’re not willing to restructure his deal for a bigger contract.”
Kupp confirmed the trade news himself on X on February 3, writing: “I was informed that the team will be seeking a trade immediately and will be working with me and my family to find the right place to continue competing for championships. I don’t agree with the decision and always believed it was going to begin and end in LA.”
He later added: “2024 began with one of the best training camps of my career. Preparations start now for 2025. Highly motivated, as healthy as ever, and looking forward to playing elite football for years to come. Love you guys… But coming for it all.”
Rams Could Target Big-Bodied Prospect Over Tee Higgins
According to Colin Cowherd, the Los Angeles Rams are seeking the New York Giants’ No. 3 overall pick in a potential trade for quarterback Matthew Stafford. Additionally, Stafford’s brother-in-law, Chad Hall, is part of the Giants’ coaching staff, adding an interesting dynamic to the situation. However, whether the Giants would be willing to meet the Rams’ steep asking price remains uncertain.
What the Rams would do with that high draft pick is another key question. Cowherd suggested that instead of selecting a quarterback immediately, they might trade down to acquire additional draft capital.
“Why? So they have extra picks for next year when they have to move up to get a quarterback,” Cowherd explained. If the Rams do secure the Giants’ top pick and trade down, Cowherd believes they could target Arizona wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan as a replacement for Cooper Kupp, whom they are reportedly looking to move.
McMillan, a 6-foot-5 receiver, led the Big 12 in receiving yards in 2024 and is widely regarded as the best receiver in this draft class.
NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein described McMillan as a “possession receiver with the size and ball skills to create big wins deep.” He noted that McMillan has strong instincts, can adjust routes effectively, and helps quarterbacks by working back to the ball. However, Zierlein also pointed out concerns about his route-running consistency and physicality.
Opting for McMillan would provide the Rams with a more cost-effective receiving option compared to pursuing free-agent wideout Tee Higgins.
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