The Rams’ Renewal and Reassessment
Los Angeles Rams General Manager Les Snead has been busy this offseason, making crucial decisions that could shape the team’s future. Just days after securing a restructured contract with quarterback Matthew Stafford, Snead has turned his attention to one of the most significant and emotional decisions of the year: the potential trade of star receiver Cooper Kupp. Kupp, who in 2021 was named the NFL’s Offensive Player of the Year and the MVP of Super Bowl LVI, has been a cornerstone of the Rams’ offense since he entered the league in 2017. However, the dynamics of the team have shifted, and Kupp’s future with the Rams is uncertain.
Cooper Kupp: A Chapter of Transition
Kupp officially became a trade target last month when he announced on social media that the Rams were looking to move him. The timing is crucial, given that Kupp is set to earn about $20 million in salary and bonuses in 2025, with a $7.5 million roster bonus due next week. Snead acknowledged that this deadline is a significant factor in their decision-making process. "If there is a deadline in this situation," Snead said during a recent videoconference, "that roster date does weigh a good bit in the algorithm formula that we’re working through." Kupp, who will be 32 next season, has struggled with injuries over the past three years, and the emergence of Puka Nacua as the team’s top receiver has added to the pressure. Despite his recent setbacks, Kupp’s contributions to the Rams have been immense, and his departure would mark a significant transition for the team.
The Stafford Factor
While Kupp’s future with the Rams is in question, the team has reaffirmed its commitment to Matthew Stafford. Stafford, who signed a massive extension in 2022, was due to earn $27 million in 2025, a salary below market value. Last Friday, the Rams and Stafford agreed to another adjustment of his contract, ensuring that the team’s quarterback will remain a core piece of their strategy. "Once we sat down, it was very obvious that we all wanted to continue the partnership, and continue chasing some form of greatness together," Snead said. The details of this adjustment have not been disclosed, but it signals a strong commitment from both the player and the organization to build on their recent successes.
Preparing for the Future
The Rams have already started preparing for life without Kupp. With Demarcus Robinson and Tutu Atwell set to become free agents next week, the team is looking to bolster its receiver corps through free agency and the draft. Puka Nacua and second-year pro Jordan Whittington are expected to step into leading roles, but the Rams will likely add more talent to ensure the offense remains dynamic and competitive. Snead’s focus on potential trade partners for Kupp and the strategic moves to secure key offensive linemen indicate a thorough and forward-thinking approach to shaping the team’s roster.
Offensive Line Adjustments
Snead has also made noteworthy moves to strengthen the offensive line. Last week, the Rams agreed to a three-year extension with left tackle Alaric Jackson, guaranteeing him $35 million. "We wanted him back and he wanted to be a Ram, so it became a win-win situation," Snead said. This move ensures continuity and stability on the offensive line, which is crucial for protecting Matthew Stafford and supporting the running game. However, the team also traded guard Jonah Jackson to the Chicago Bears for a 2025 sixth-round draft pick. Jackson, who signed a huge free-agent contract in 2024, played only four games last season due to injuries. The Bears will cover Jackson’s $9 million salary next season, allowing the Rams to reallocate resources and focus on areas that need immediate attention.
The Backup Quarterback Question
The Rams are also considering their options at the backup quarterback position. Veteran Jimmy Garoppolo remains the top choice to return as Stafford’s backup. Garoppolo, known for his versatility and experience, played well during his time with the Rams, particularly in the playoff win against the Seahawks. However, Snead noted that Garoppolo would take time to explore other opportunities, potentially including a starting role or a bridge quarterback position with another team. This decision underscores the Rams’ commitment to maintaining depth and flexibility at the quarterback position, a key factor in their recent success.
A New Era for the Rams
As the Rams navigate these changes, the organization is clear about its goals: to continue competing at a high level while managing financial constraints and player development. Kupp’s potential departure, while difficult, is seen as a necessary step to keep the team competitive and to open new opportunities for younger players like Nacua and Whittington. The trade of Jonah Jackson and the extension of Alaric Jackson demonstrate the team’s willingness to make strategic moves to build a robust and versatile offensive line. With Stafford’s future secured and the backup quarterback position under review, the Rams are positioning themselves for a new chapter, one that promises to be just as exciting and challenging as the previous ones.
