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A Potential Homecoming for Kupp in Detroit
As trade rumors swirl around Los Angeles Rams star wide receiver Cooper Kupp, the Detroit Lions have quickly emerged as a possible landing spot. The speculation surrounding Kupp’s departure has been building since the trade deadline, and now, as the offseason heats up, it appears the Rams are actively working to find him a new team.
On Monday night, Kupp himself confirmed via social media that Los Angeles intends to trade him, signaling the end of an era with the team that drafted him in 2017. While multiple franchises are expected to pursue the former Super Bowl MVP, Detroit’s connections to Kupp make it one of the most intriguing destinations.
The Goff-Kupp Connection: A Built-In Advantage
One of the strongest factors linking Kupp to the Lions is his previous partnership with quarterback Jared Goff. The two played together for four seasons in Los Angeles, developing an impressive chemistry that saw both make Pro Bowl appearances.
During an appearance on SportsCenter, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that league executives have pinpointed four teams likely to pursue Kupp: the Pittsburgh Steelers, Kansas City Chiefs, Washington Commanders, and the Lions. Fowler highlighted Detroit’s unique advantage due to Goff, saying, “One league executive brought up Detroit to me because of the connection with Jared Goff. They came into the league together and made Pro Bowls together. That’s the type of instant connection that could be fun.”
Beyond Goff, Lions general manager Brad Holmes also has history with Kupp. Holmes served as the Rams’ Director of College Scouting when the team selected Kupp in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft. His familiarity with Kupp’s talent and work ethic could make Detroit an appealing trade partner for the Rams.
What Would a Trade for Kupp Look Like?
While Detroit’s interest in Kupp makes sense on multiple levels, any potential trade must also account for his contract. The 30-year-old receiver is owed $20 million in 2025, including a $12.5 million base salary and a $7.5 million roster bonus.
For a trade to happen, the Rams may need to absorb a significant portion of his salary, particularly the upcoming roster bonus due on March 15. If Los Angeles opts to pay that in full, it could delay the timing of a trade. Alternatively, the Rams could release Kupp as a post-June 1 cut, freeing up additional cap space but limiting his ability to sign with a new team until later in the offseason.
If Detroit is serious about adding another elite weapon to its offense, Kupp would provide an immediate boost alongside Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams. His experience, route-running precision, and red-zone efficiency would make the Lions’ passing attack even more formidable.
Is a Reunion in Detroit Likely?
While Kupp’s destination remains uncertain, Detroit’s connections to him make them a logical suitor. The Goff factor, Holmes’ history with Kupp, and the team’s offensive structure all create an ideal environment for him to thrive.
However, with multiple teams expected to pursue Kupp, the Lions will have to weigh their options carefully. If Los Angeles lowers its asking price or agrees to cover some of his salary, the possibility of a reunion becomes much more realistic.
For now, the Lions remain firmly in the mix, but whether they make a move for Kupp depends on the trade market and how aggressively they pursue the former Super Bowl MVP.