Los Angeles Rams rookie wideout Cooper Kupp has played extremely well through the first two weeks of the 2017 NFL preseason. So well in fact, that he was given the highest rating for a receiver from Pro Football Focus while earning the respect of fellow teammates.
Unfortunately, his reign at the top may be coming to an end this week. Head coach Sean McVay says Kupp has been ruled out for this week’s matchup versus the neighboring Los Angeles Chargers with a minor groin injury, according to Rams Insider Myles Simmons:
McVay says WR Cooper Kupp has a minor groin injury and will not play this week vs. Chargers.
— Myles Simmons (@MylesASimmons) August 24, 2017
While the news certainly deals a blow to the receiving corps for the time being, Kupp has already established himself as a legitimate weapon for this team. With that said, his injury designation is likely just a precaution to make sure he is healthy for Week 1 of the 2017 NFL season.
Kupp joins several Rams players that are expected to miss out on preseason action. His injury will give other receivers such as Josh Reynolds, Pharoah Cooper, and Nelson Spruce a chance to prove themselves. So it should be interesting to see who steps into Kupp’s role as quarterback Jared Goff’s favorite target.
Goff connected with Kupp 8 times, for 105 yards and a touchdown through the first two preseason games. This week’s showdown with the Chargers creates a perfect opportunity for the lesser-known wideouts on the Rams depth chart to finally make a name for themselves.
