Cooper Kupp Not Expected to Return to Rams Next Season After Agreeing to $150 Million Deal with Saints

In a move that has left the NFL world in shock, wide receiver Cooper Kupp is expected to part ways with the Los Angeles Rams after agreeing to a monumental 5-year, $150 million deal with the New Orleans Saints. Kupp, who has been the centerpiece of the Rams’ offense since being drafted in 2017, is now set to join the Saints in what promises to be one of the most significant moves of the 2025 NFL offseason.

Kupp’s departure from Los Angeles marks the end of an era for the Rams, who have relied on his consistent production, remarkable route-running, and hands to carry their passing game. However, the 2025 offseason has been one of significant change for the Rams, who are transitioning into a new phase with younger talent and a shifting roster. Kupp’s decision to leave L.A. for the Saints, who have made significant investments to bolster their offensive weapons, represents a seismic shift not only for the wide receiver but also for the Rams and the NFC as a whole.

Kupp’s Departure from Los Angeles Rams

Cooper Kupp’s time with the Los Angeles Rams has been marked by unparalleled success. Since being selected in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Kupp has quickly become one of the league’s most reliable and prolific wide receivers. He has been instrumental in the Rams’ offensive schemes, developing chemistry with quarterback Matthew Stafford that helped them capture a Super Bowl title in the 2021 season.

Throughout his career, Kupp has earned multiple Pro Bowl selections and was named the 2021 NFL Offensive Player of the Year, following a career year that saw him catch 145 passes for 1,947 yards and 16 touchdowns. His ability to dominate both inside and outside the numbers has made him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses, and his route-running has often been lauded as one of the best in the league.

However, despite Kupp’s individual success, the Rams have struggled to find sustained team success in recent years. The team’s aging roster and salary cap constraints have limited their ability to build around their core players, and Los Angeles entered the 2025 offseason with several critical decisions to make. Kupp’s contract, which had a significant cap hit, became a point of concern for the franchise, especially given their rebuilding efforts.

It appears that the Rams were unable to come to an agreement on a contract extension or restructure with Kupp that would have kept him in Los Angeles for the long haul. Reports suggest that Kupp, while appreciative of his time with the Rams, ultimately felt that it was time for a new challenge, and the Saints offered him the opportunity to join a team on the rise with a promising future.

The New Orleans Saints’ $150 Million Investment

The New Orleans Saints, who have undergone their own set of changes over the past few seasons, have been looking for ways to revamp their offense. After a series of disappointing seasons post-Drew Brees, the Saints have been attempting to surround their quarterback, Derek Carr, with the necessary offensive weapons to compete in the NFC South.

Kupp’s arrival in New Orleans is the perfect piece to complete the Saints’ offensive puzzle. The Saints have long lacked a true top-tier wide receiver to complement Carr’s arm strength and playmaking ability. While they have promising talents like Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed, adding a proven commodity like Kupp instantly elevates the Saints’ offensive ceiling.

The 5-year, $150 million deal, which includes $85 million in guaranteed money, is one of the most lucrative contracts given to a wide receiver in NFL history. The Saints’ willingness to make such a significant financial commitment to Kupp reflects their confidence in his ability to be the centerpiece of their offense moving forward. New Orleans sees Kupp as a game-changer who can not only make a significant impact on the field but also serve as a mentor to younger players in their receiving corps.

Kupp’s ability to run precise routes, create separation, and make contested catches will be an invaluable asset for Carr, who now has one of the league’s best receivers to target in key situations. With Kupp, Olave, and Shaheed, the Saints have one of the most exciting young receiving trios in the league, and the addition of Kupp could provide Carr with the weapons he needs to compete with some of the best offenses in the NFL.

A Shift in the Rams’ Offensive Strategy

The Rams’ offense will undoubtedly look different in 2025 without Kupp. While Kupp’s departure may feel like a blow to their championship aspirations, the Rams have been building for the future, and parting ways with Kupp may be part of their long-term plan to reset the roster.

The Rams’ decision to not retain Kupp is largely driven by the need to make salary cap room for other important moves. The team has several positions to address, including quarterback, offensive line, and defensive depth. Losing Kupp will free up significant cap space, but it will also leave a void in their receiving corps.

Los Angeles will now need to find a new No. 1 wide receiver to replace Kupp, and while they have promising players like Allen Robinson and Van Jefferson, neither has the consistency and explosiveness of Kupp. The Rams will likely look to the 2025 NFL Draft and free agency to find a playmaking wideout capable of taking over the top receiver role.

Additionally, the Rams will need to assess their long-term future at quarterback. Matthew Stafford, who has been with the team since 2016, is getting up in age and has dealt with injuries in recent seasons. Los Angeles may need to look at drafting or acquiring a new quarterback in the near future, especially as the team continues its transition from an all-in approach to a more sustainable, long-term build.

Despite the loss of Kupp, the Rams are still hoping to remain competitive in the NFC West. They have a talented defense, led by Aaron Donald and Jalen Ramsey, and their offense, though now lacking Kupp, still has playmakers who can make an impact. But the departure of Kupp is a significant blow to the team’s chances of competing for a Super Bowl in the near future.

Kupp’s Legacy with the Rams

Cooper Kupp’s legacy with the Rams is undeniable. In his seven seasons with the team, he has been the face of the offense and one of the most reliable and productive wide receivers in the league. His Super Bowl victory with the Rams in 2021 will forever be a part of his legacy, and his performances in big moments, particularly in the postseason, have solidified his status as one of the greats in Rams history.

While Kupp’s time with the Rams is coming to an end, his impact on the franchise will not be forgotten. He is the team’s all-time leader in receiving yards and touchdowns, and his record-setting 2021 season will remain one of the best individual performances in NFL history. Kupp will leave Los Angeles as one of the most beloved and respected players to ever wear a Rams uniform.

The Future for Kupp and the Saints

As Cooper Kupp embarks on this new chapter of his career with the New Orleans Saints, the expectations for him are sky-high. The Saints are betting big on his ability to elevate their offense, and Kupp will be eager to prove that he can continue his success in a new system. With a quarterback like Derek Carr at the helm and a talented supporting cast, Kupp has all the tools to remain one of the league’s top receivers for years to come.

In the NFC South, where competition is fierce, the Saints will be looking to Kupp to lead their offense and help them get back into playoff contention. His ability to make plays in critical moments, combined with his leadership and experience, will be invaluable as the Saints look to return to the Super Bowl.

While Kupp’s departure from the Rams marks the end of an era, his future with the Saints looks promising. Fans in New Orleans are excited about the addition of one of the NFL’s best wide receivers, and Kupp himself is excited for the opportunity to be part of a team with such a rich history and strong offensive potential. The coming years will be crucial for both Kupp and the Saints as they look to build a championship contender around him.

As for the Rams, the franchise will have to find a way to rebuild and move forward after the loss of their most valuable offensive weapon. The changes in Los Angeles are just beginning, and the 2025 season will mark the beginning of a new era for the team, one that will hopefully build on the lessons learned from their championship run and position them for success in the future.