Silver reports that the Rams did not pursue a salary reduction or restructured deal for Kupp; instead, they released him and apparently encouraged retirement. The move came as Kupp’s role within the offense had diminished amid mounting injuries and the rise of Puka Nacua, with plays no longer being schemed around him.
The friction intensified when the Rams quietly explored trade options in October 2024. The team claimed they were fielding calls, but Kupp and some league sources viewed that stance as disingenuous. He returned from a high-ankle sprain to help the Rams claw back into playoff contention after a 1-4 start, yet the relationship remained strained.
After his release last March, several powerful figures within the Rams did not reach out to thank him for his contributions. Once in free agency, Kupp’s market was reportedly cooled by the Rams cautioning potential suitors against offering more than the veteran minimum, citing his age and injury history.
The Seahawks signed Kupp to a three-year, $45 million deal, and he quickly became a leadership presence, both on and off the field. He delivered in the NFC Championship Game against his former team, catching the go-ahead 13-yard touchdown in the second half and contributing with crucial blocking as Seattle advanced toward the championship scene.
Teammates and observers echoed the impact of his arrival. Sam Darnold praised his leadership and work ethic, while former Rams linebacker Ernest Jones IV summed up the sentiment: “They were done with him. (They said), ‘He’s not worth it.’ They said that about a lot of us.” The Rams believed they were acting in the right interests, but Kupp helped Seattle eliminate them in the NFC Championship as he headed toward the Super Bowl with a rival organization.
