For the Denver Broncos, ensuring quarterback Bo Nix has the right supporting cast in his second season is crucial. One potential move could involve acquiring Los Angeles Rams wide receiver.
Kupp, a former All-Pro, revealed on social media that the Rams have informed him of their intention to trade him this offseason. This opens up the possibility for teams like the Broncos to explore what it would take to acquire him.
The Athletic’s Jourdan Rodrigue mentioned that teams such as the Pittsburgh Steelers, Kansas City Chiefs, and Denver Broncos could be viable options for Kupp, where he would likely see a significant number of targets.
Kupp also mentioned that the Rams are willing to collaborate with him to find a suitable trade partner, potentially accepting less in return and even absorbing some of his remaining salary to facilitate the deal.
The Broncos may be particularly interested in Kupp not only for his talent but also to prevent him from joining the Chiefs.
Kupp is entering the second year of a three-year, $80.1 million contract, with $93.5 million in career earnings. The Rams are projected to have $37.4 million in cap space.
An anonymous NFL scout told FOX Sports’ Eric Williams on February 13 that Kupp can still play at a high level, and despite rumors about his lower-body quickness, the scout dismissed those concerns, emphasizing that Kupp remains a top option for nearly any team.
Cooper Kupp’s Injury History a Red Flag for Suitors Like Broncos
Cooper Kupp played 12 games in 2024, with two full regular seasons in his career. In 2023, he caught 67 passes for 710 yards and 6 touchdowns, but injuries are still a major concern.
Kupp’s injury struggles over the past three years need some context. His intense physical and mental effort in 2021, when he won the NFL’s triple crown and helped the Rams secure a Super Bowl, affected his long-term health. It often seemed as though he had to catch up on rehab during the offseason before he could fully train. Despite this, he still missed four games in 2023 due to an ankle injury, as noted by Jourdan Rodrigue.
While Kupp may still be capable of being a No. 1 receiver elsewhere, he was reportedly unhappy with his role as a No. 2/3 option with the Rams, which could indicate his desire for a more prominent role on a new team. He also expressed disagreement with the Rams’ decision to trade him in his post announcing their plans.
However, the Denver Broncos should approach potential targets like Kupp with caution. The Denver Post’s Troy Renck suggested that the Broncos do not need a player like Kupp or Deebo Samuel. While Samuel was an All-Pro in 2021, his production has declined, and he has faced injuries and conflicts. As for Kupp, although he was once highly regarded, he turns 32 in June and has missed more than four games each season since 2021. A trade for Kupp would also come with a $12.5 million salary if the Rams trigger a roster bonus.
Sean Payton Downplayed Broncos’ Need for WR
Broncos head coach Sean Payton did not rule out the possibility of adding a veteran wide receiver, but he emphasized the potential of younger players like Devaughn Vele and Troy Franklin Jr.
“I think a veteran wide receiver fits a ‘need,’” Payton shared on “Up & Adams” on February 5. “But we’re stronger there than some might think. Devaughn Vele, Troy Franklin, and a few other receivers we drafted last year are promising.”
Payton also highlighted Marvin Mims Jr., a second-round pick in 2023, who made a strong late-season push.
This could make a player like Cooper Kupp—who might be past his prime and still demands a high salary—a less likely option for the Broncos. Moreover, given the Broncos’ tendency to spread the ball around with quarterback Bo Nix, the team may not have specific targets in mind.
Additionally, Payton stressed the importance of finding a “joker” player to create mismatches, which could be a running back or tight end, further diminishing the priority for adding a veteran wide receiver.
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