Rams coach Sean McVay believes Cooper Kupp will remain with the team for the foreseeable future amid trade rumors involving the star receiver.
Kupp, who returned to the field Thursday after missing four games with an ankle injury, has been the subject of trade speculation with Los Angeles just 2-4 heading into the game and several teams in need of a wide receiver.
However, the Rams beat the Vikings 30-20 to move within one game of the NFC West-leading Seahawks, and McVay later issued an emphatic update on Kupp’s future with the team.
“I’m very happy to have Cooper Kupp back with us and I hope he continues that way,” he said. told reporters.
Kupp caught five balls for 51 yards and a touchdown in the victory.
Sean McVay said after the Rams’ win over the Vikings that he hoped Cooper Kupp would stay with the team.
Kupp had five receptions for 51 yards and a touchdown in his return from an ankle injury.
The Rams previously called several teams to trade the former Super Bowl MVP, according to Athletic’s Diana Russini.
Sources told the publication that the team would be looking for a second-round pick for the star receiver.
Kupp admitted to reporters earlier this week that he was aware his name was being mentioned in trade negotiations, but he was concerned about “being the best LA Ram” he could be.
“I’m aware of it, but at the end of the day, I mean, I’ll be where my feet are,” Kupp said via ESPN. ‘That’s all I know. I have a job to do here. And I’m very proud to give everything I can for the guys in this building and to be able to go on the field knowing that I prepared the best I could. And for seven and a half years I’ve been an LA Ram and I’ve taken that approach every day.
Trade speculation surrounding Kupp has come as several teams have suffered injuries to their wide receiver spots.
The Chiefs have lost Marquise ‘Hollywood’ Brown and Rashee Rice, while the Bucs’ Chris Godwin will miss the rest of the year with an ankle injury. The 49ers’ Brandon Aiyuk is also out for the season following a torn ACL and MCL.
Kansas City, at least, appears to have been ruled out as a possible destination for Kupp as the team just acquired DeAndre Hopkins in a trade.
That move also followed other blockbuster deals for wide receivers, with the Jets acquiring Davante Adams and the Bills acquiring Amari Cooper.
Kupp (provided he isn’t moved) and the Rams will now prepare for a showdown in Seattle on Sunday.