Managing sports injuries requires a very precise level of finesse. Work too hard, and you risk re-injuring yourself. Become too discouraged and you may never play the same again.
For Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp, he and the Rams coaching staff are doing all they can to limit Kupp’s energy towards recovering from knee surgery that cost him the second half of last season. Previously, Kupp discussed wanting to do more but understanding that doing more is not always beneficial.
Now as the reigning NFC Champions are nearing the start of training camp, Kupp appears to be recovering on pace. However, according to head coach Sean McVay the young receiver still needs to be reigned in, via Clarence Dennis of TheRams.com:
“He’s really doing an excellent job staying right on track, making good progress, and we want it this way, where we’ve got to pull him back because he’s so excited to get back out there,” McVay said. “He wants to return to the competition with his teammates.”
Despite tearing his ACL, Kupp’s attitude has held strong. He was reportedly so rambunctious during the first set of Rams organized team activities, quarterback Jared Goff suggested a shock collar. That attitude will help to keep Kupp prepared for what still may be a long road to full recovery.
Before going down with his injury, Kupp was having a stellar season, already topping his rookie performance. While playing just eight games in his sophomore campaign, Kupp grabbed 6 touchdowns with a 72.6% catch rate.
If Kupp can come back at any level close to that, the Rams are certain to remain a long-distance threat. With Brandin Cooks, Robert Woods and Kuup forming one of the best trios in the league, opposing defenses may not be able to stop all three players.
With still plenty of time until training camp and the start of the regular season, the Rams will likely continue to take things slow with Kupp and his recovery to ensure that he doesn’t suffer any setbacks and is ready for the start of the season.
