Here we go agaaaaain.
Stop me if you’ve heard this one before — a new wide receiver trade target for the Pittsburgh Steelers has emerged. That potential trade target is All-Pro Cooper Kupp, 2021’s NFL Offensive Player of the Year and Super Bowl LVI MVP. The Los Angeles Rams are making calls to potential contenders who may be interested in the star receiver, Dianna Russini, NFL insider for The Athletic reports, looking for a second-round pick while offering to retain a portion of Kupp’s salary this season to get the deal done.
Here’s a look at how the rest of his contract, signed through the 2027 season, is structured per Michael Ginnitti of Spotrac:
Per @DMRussini, not only are the #Rams exploring trades for WR Cooper Kupp, but they’re willing to retain salary to purchase a potential 2nd Rd Pick as well.
Kupp’s Contract
2024: $9.1M (gtd)
2025: $20M ($5M gtd)
2026: $19.85M (non-gtd— Spotrac (@spotrac) October 22, 2024
The ask of a second-round pick for the star receiver seems reasonable considering his potential to contribute in any given week. Though health has been a struggle over the past two seasons, he’s been a star when available; he totaled 110 receiving yards and a score in Week 1, playing 100% of snaps.
Unfortunately, he suffered an ankle injury in Week 2 that has kept him out of the past four matchups for the Rams, but HC Sean McVay has indicated that Kupp would be likely to play in Week 8’s Thursday night contest against the Minnesota Vikings.
Other potential trade targets for the Steelers include Jets WR Mike Williams, Jaguars WR Christian Kirk and Seahawks WR Tyler Lockett. Hopefully, GM Omar Khan will be an active shopper ahead of the NFL trade deadline, in serious need of some help opposite George Pickens.
The NFL trade deadline is set for 4 p.m. ET on November 5.