The Los Angeles Rams have most of their cap space tied up in either current or future contract extensions for key players on the roster.
Wide receiver Cooper Kupp is among the notable pieces still waiting to secure a long-term deal. The former third-round pick is entering the final year of his rookie contract in the 2020 NFL season and is undoubtedly hoping to settle down in his new home for good.
There has not been much talk about the Rams working on a new deal for Kupp this offseason. Fortunately, that does not seem to be his concern at the moment.
According to Stu Jackson of the team’s official website, Kupp says staying safe from the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is his main priority:
Though Rams WR Cooper Kupp is entering the final year of his rookie contract, he said he isn't worried about an extension.
“There’s so much is going on in the world right now," Kupp said. "It’s really not a priority at this time.”
— Stu Jackson (@StuJRams) April 16, 2020
Kupp added that he is still doing what he can to get some work in under quarantine:
Rams WR Cooper Kupp on working out and staying sharp while quarantined:
"I played catch with my wife a little bit. She's got a pretty good arm, but she's a lefty so the ball's spinning in the opposite direction."
He said he's working on getting a JUGS machine.
— Stu Jackson (@StuJRams) April 16, 2020
The update from Kupp is certainly an encouraging sign that not only is he and his family healthy, but the looming contract situation does not seem to be a major concern. After all, the Rams are still working with limited resources and will need some time to get their funds in order once the 2020 NFL Draft is over.
Kupp emerged as quite the steal for Los Angeles after etching out an immediate role for himself in the passing game. His versatile skill set on the outside and in the slot helped him develop into one of quarterback Jared Goff’s favorite targets.
Kupp has already endured his fair share of trials and tribulations after suffering a torn ACL during the 2018 campaign. Fortunately, he was able to bounce back with a career year in the 2019 NFL season after hauling in 94 receptions for 1,161 receiving yards and ten touchdowns to make a case for NFL Comeback Player of the Year honors.
The Rams were able to clear up some cap space by parting ways with wide receiver Brandin Cooks this offseason and they could look to allocate it toward Kupp’s future deal. It is safe to say that he has done what he can to show that he can put up big numbers for years to come as an integral piece of the offense, however, it remains to be seen what kind of price tag he will be looking to garner when the time comes.
