Sep 15, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp (10) prior to a game against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-Imagn Images

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Cooper Kupp Trade Rumors: Could the Bengals pursue Rams’ WR Cooper Kupp?

Could Cooper Kupp replace Tee Higgins in Cincinnati?

The Bengals’ offseason already feels like a ticking time bomb. With Tee Higgins nearing free agency, Cincinnati faces a real problem. Losing Higgins would strip Joe Burrow of his most reliable sidekick outside Ja’Marr Chase. And then we have Cooper Kupp—a name that’s now circling trade rumors. Is this move even on the table? Let’s find out

The Zac Taylor and Cooper Kupp connection feels too coincidental

Zac Taylor and Cooper Kupp aren’t strangers. Back in 2017, Taylor worked as the Rams’ assistant wide receivers coach when Kupp entered the league. That year, Kupp’s name blew up for his precise routes and instant chemistry with then-QB Jared Goff. And now, Taylor leads an offense that could use exactly that—a polished, proven veteran.

Taylor doesn’t have to guess whether Kupp would fit his scheme. He’s seen it firsthand. He knows how to use him. And that connection could make the Bengals a very real trade destination.

Should the Bengals trade for Cooper Kupp?

WATCH: https://t.co/V0RE0gs2NX @ChatSports pic.twitter.com/GYgUxgeT49
— Stone Shields (@stoneshields_) January 26, 2025

“Kupp also has ties to Bengals head coach Zac Taylor, who served as the Rams’ assistant wide receivers coach in 2017. As the Bengals’ primary play-caller, Taylor could see Kupp as a trustworthy veteran who fits in his offense,” via @bleacherreport.

But Would Kupp Leave The Rams For Cincinnati?

Kupp has some things to think through here. His quarterback, Matthew Stafford, might be done. The Rams, as a whole, seem like a team trying to figure out what’s next. And then there’s Joe Burrow, a quarterback you’d call the ultimate upgrade.

“The Rams wideout could be drawn to playing with Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow as Matthew Stafford contemplates his future,” per @bleacherreport.

Catching passes from Burrow while playing alongside Ja’Marr Chase? That’s tempting. But Kupp turns 31 this year and hasn’t played a full season since 2021. Would Cincinnati really want to take that risk?

The Bengals’ Options Are Messy, But That Is What Makes This Interesting

Let’s not sugarcoat this. The Bengals’ offense isn’t in an ideal spot. They drafted Jermaine Burton in 2024 to prepare for situations like this. But Burton hasn’t delivered. Four catches for 107 yards as a rookie? That’s not going to cut it.

And if Higgins does leave, then what? Cincinnati’s offense will feel incomplete. Sure, Ja’Marr Chase is an unstoppable force, but one receiver can’t carry the load. Yet, going all-in on Kupp doesn’t scream “safe.” His age and injury history aren’t exactly screaming sure thing.

HELL OF A RUN: Cooper Kupp may have just played his final game with the Los Angeles #Rams.

Kupp is one of the best players in team history and is one hell of a story, an undersized zero-star recruit to Super Bowl MVP and Triple Crown Winner.

Remarkable🫡 pic.twitter.com/hHf77XQzDa
— MLFootball (@_MLFootball) January 24, 2025

Pairing Kupp with Chase would give Burrow one of the most dangerous WR duos in the league. But for the Bengals, who pride themselves on smart moves and building from within, this feels unlikely.

The front office will probably do everything to re-sign Higgins first. He’s younger. He knows the system. He’s beloved by the city. Kupp? He’d be a statement. But is he the move? That’s the gamble.

If Higgins walks, though, don’t rule anything out. In this league, shockers happen!

Image: Imagn Images

Cooper Kupp

Cooper Kupp trade

Natasha Bose

I write about sports because, well, it brings in the big bucks! I’m not some lifelong analyst or stats guru, truth being told, you’ve probably never heard of me!—I just know how to research, write, and make things sound good. That’s the job!
Got into sports media the same way most people do: by (fortunate) accident. Started with SEO writing, took on a few sports gigs, and now here we are! I cover games, trades, player drama—whatever needs words.
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