Would the Broncos be willing to trade for Cooper Kupp?
Even though it will be very hard for the L.A. Rams to convince a team to trade for Cooper Kupp’s contract — he’s seven years older than the oldest receiver to gain 1,100 yards last season — that won’t stop the media from projecting potential trade destinations and ignoring the $20 million he’s owed.
The latest such outlet is PFF and writer Mason Cameron outlines why the Broncos would be a good fit:
Due to a variety of factors ranging from his age and recent injury history to his significant contract, some of the more risk-averse teams will be unlikely to explore a trade for Kupp.
However, Kupp still profiles as an asset to a team looking for a polished route-runner with high football acumen. Even in a down year, Kupp managed to generate a 72.3 PFF receiving grade, further showcasing his exceptional floor.
Denver’s primary directive this offseason will be to find more weapons for their young passer, Bo Nix, after his promising rookie campaign. Kupp would certainly provide Nix with the safety blanket and sure-hands this Broncos offense needs to take the next steps. Broncos HC Sean Payton is notorious for his intricate system and play-calling, which would bode well for a veteran like Kupp – as opposed to adding a young receiver in the draft – given his high IQ.
I’m not sure why this issue confuses so many people.
Cooper Kupp was based based on leading the NFL in catches, yards, and touchdowns while also winning Super Bowl MVP. That was three years ago and he hasn’t had a healthy campaign since then, which isn’t surprising given his age or injury history. Why should a team trade for Kupp, whether that’s for $12.5 million or $20 million, when it’s an acceptable risk to simply see what he’ll cost if he’s released?
Teams know that the Rams aren’t going to keep Kupp, so the only risk is that he either gets traded to a different team or is a free agent and signs with another team. But Kupp could have his choice of team either way.
If a team “misses out” on the 32-year-old, they could always sign some other receiver who will be available because of his age like DeAndre Hopkins or Amari Cooper or Davante Adams, all of whom will reach free agency one way or another.
The Broncos could release or trade Courtland Sutton, who is 2 years younger than Kupp, so is he really going to make the offense better than what they currently have with Sutton? If the Broncos try to pair Sutton with Kupp, then their goal is to be the only team in the NFL with two over-30 starting receivers.
This trade proposal feels like a wash for several reasons, so we shouldn’t expect it to happen.
