Cooper Kupp has spent his entire eight-year career with the Los Angeles Rams. While he had one of the greatest wide receiver seasons of all time in 2021, he has failed to reach those heights over the past three seasons as he has struggled to stay on the field.
The Rams are reportedly planning to release Kupp at the start of the league's new year if they are unable to trade him. The Super Bowl LVI MVP is curious about joining the New England Patriots, according to Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald, who wrote:
According to a league source, Kupp is curious about the prospect of playing in New England and has shared that curiosity with some close to him. Kupp has personal and professional connections to Patriots, starting with ex-college teammate and fellow wideout Kendrick Bourne, who has repeatedly advocated for Kupp to come to New England on social media. The two remain friendly, sources say. Kupp also played under ex-Rams assistant head coach Thomas Brown, who worked in Los Angeles from 2020-22 and now serves as the Patriots’ tight ends coach, per Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald
The Patriots had one of the worst offenses in the NFL last season, ranking 30th in scoring offense and 31st in yards. They struggled mightily in the passing game, as they were 31st in passing touchdowns and 32nd in passing yards.
While rookie quarterback Drake Maye showed some promise, New England is looking to upgrade the roster around him. Despite his battles with injuries, Kupp has produced when on the field and would immediately be the biggest weapon in the Patriots' wide receiver room.
In 12 games last season, he recorded 67 receptions for 710 yards and six touchdowns. Each of those numbers would have led New England.
It remains unclear what the 2021 NFL Offensive Player of the Year will look for in free agency, as he has a Super Bowl ring and has made plenty of money. If he is looking for one final payday, the Patriots could be in a position to land Kupp.
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