Lions Have Second-Best Odds to Land Rams’ Cooper Kupp
The offseason is a time of change in the NFL, and one of the most intriguing storylines in 2025 revolves around the future of Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp. The 2021 NFL Offensive Player of the Year and Super Bowl LVI MVP is expected to be one of the most sought-after players in the league. After a career full of accolades and with a significant cap hit on the horizon, Kupp’s future with the Rams is in question. With speculation mounting, one team, in particular, is gaining momentum as a likely landing spot: the Detroit Lions.
The Cooper Kupp Phenomenon
Kupp’s impact on the NFL cannot be understated. After being drafted by the Rams in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Kupp quickly established himself as one of the league’s elite receivers. He broke numerous records, including the NFL’s Triple Crown in 2021 when he led the league in receptions (145), receiving yards (1,947), and receiving touchdowns (16). His performances have been nothing short of spectacular, culminating in a pivotal role in the Rams’ Super Bowl LVI victory against the Cincinnati Bengals. Kupp earned Super Bowl MVP honors, catching two touchdowns, including the game-winning one, further cementing his status as one of the NFL’s premier talents.
However, following an injury-plagued 2023 season and with the Rams on the outside looking in during the 2024 playoff race, rumors have circulated that the team may part ways with Kupp. His age (32 years old) and injury history, combined with a hefty $29.78 million cap hit, make him a prime candidate for a potential trade. In light of this, betting markets and NFL insiders have weighed in on where Kupp might end up next. Interestingly, the Detroit Lions have emerged as a favorite to acquire the receiver, with the second-best odds after the Denver Broncos.
The Detroit Lions: A Strong Contender
As the offseason heats up, the Detroit Lions have seen their odds to land Kupp improve significantly. Initially sitting at +800, the Lions’ chances have shifted to +550, placing them as a strong contender in the race. So, what makes the Lions an attractive destination for Kupp?
First and foremost, the connection between Kupp and Lions quarterback Jared Goff cannot be overlooked. Goff and Kupp were teammates with the Rams for four seasons, from 2017 to 2020. During that time, they formed a highly successful partnership, with Kupp consistently putting up big numbers. Over the course of their time together, Kupp amassed 288 receptions, 3,570 receiving yards, and 24 touchdowns. This established rapport between the two would make for a smooth transition, should Kupp join the Lions. Given that Goff is entering the prime of his career, adding Kupp would provide a massive boost to Detroit’s passing game, giving Goff a top-tier target who can stretch the field and make plays in critical moments.
Furthermore, the Lions’ offense, under the guidance of head coach Dan Campbell and offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, has emerged as one of the most dynamic in the league. With playmakers like Amon-Ra St. Brown already on the roster, the addition of Kupp would give the Lions one of the most dangerous wide receiver duos in the NFL. Detroit has made significant strides in recent seasons, and a move for Kupp would further solidify their standing as a rising contender in the NFC.
Financial Considerations: Will the Lions Make It Work?
Kupp’s contract is undoubtedly a major factor in any potential trade. With a cap hit of $29.78 million in 2025, acquiring Kupp would require the Lions to make significant financial adjustments. The good news for Detroit is that they have ample cap space for the coming season, meaning they would be able to absorb Kupp’s contract without needing to make drastic moves to clear room.
However, Kupp has reportedly been unwilling to renegotiate his deal, which means any team acquiring him would have to be prepared to pay him his full salary. For the Lions, this may require some creative cap management, such as restructuring other contracts or shedding dead weight from the roster. Fortunately, Detroit has been able to navigate salary cap issues effectively in recent years, giving them the flexibility to take on a player of Kupp’s caliber.
The possibility of the Rams eating some of Kupp’s contract in order to facilitate a trade could also play a role in the financial aspect. This would make the deal more palatable for the Lions and increase the likelihood of a trade happening. Still, the Lions would need to weigh the financial impact against the potential benefits of adding one of the league’s most prolific receivers to their offense.
Other Teams in the Mix: Who Are the Rivals?
While the Lions have emerged as a top contender, they are not the only team interested in Kupp. The Denver Broncos, who initially led the pack with +450 odds, remain a strong possibility for Kupp’s next destination. The Broncos are in need of a true No. 1 wide receiver to pair with quarterback Russell Wilson, and Kupp could be the perfect fit. With a relatively healthy cap situation and a commitment to building around Wilson, the Broncos will likely be one of the most aggressive teams in the trade market.
Another team to watch is the Washington Commanders. The Commanders have a young quarterback in Sam Howell and ample cap space, making them a viable option for Kupp. Washington is still in the process of rebuilding, but acquiring a proven star like Kupp could accelerate their development and provide Howell with a legitimate weapon on the outside. Additionally, the Commanders’ offensive system under head coach Ron Rivera could benefit greatly from Kupp’s skill set.
There is also the possibility that teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, or Green Bay Packers could make a push for Kupp, given their need for another top-tier receiver to complement their respective offenses. Kansas City, despite being a bit over the cap, could find ways to fit Kupp’s salary into their budget, making them a dark-horse contender. The Bills, with Josh Allen at quarterback, could also offer Kupp a chance to win a Super Bowl sooner rather than later, though they would need to make cap room. Green Bay, depending on the direction they choose to go at quarterback, might see Kupp as the perfect veteran presence to pair with their next QB.
The Trade Dynamics: What Would It Take to Land Kupp?
When it comes to landing a player of Kupp’s caliber, the price will likely be steep. The Rams will not trade their star receiver without demanding significant compensation. A first-round pick could be involved, potentially along with additional assets like a second or third-round pick, or a combination of players and draft picks. The Rams are rebuilding, and while Kupp has been a franchise cornerstone, they will likely look to maximize the return on his trade value.
For the Lions, acquiring Kupp would be a bold move. However, it’s one that makes sense given their current trajectory. Detroit is poised to make a playoff push in the NFC, and adding Kupp to an offense that already boasts solid playmakers would only strengthen their chances. From the Rams’ perspective, parting with Kupp would allow them to free up cap space and build for the future. The question now is whether they can secure a deal that benefits both teams in the long run.