“Thankful to live in a place where failure and success go hand in hand,” wrote LA Rams receiver Cooper Kupp on X after the 2024 season. He has seen brilliant success with them, winning Super Bowl LVI along with MVP and the triple crown. But there are no guarantees of money or loyalty in a game (and business) where things might change in an instant. That’s what we are seeing right now happening with the Rams.

HC Sean McVay announced a massive heartbreak for the fans with the decision to trade Kupp immediately. It will cost them $17 million in dead money. But the Rams hope they can acquire a draft pick in the coming draft or a later one in exchange for him. It would only make sense if they get one in the single digits.

After winning the Super Bowl, Cooper Kupp signed a 3-year $80.1 million deal in 2022. It gave him a $20 million signing bonus and $75 million guaranteed. But fast forward 2 years, they are working hard to trade him. As far as the player goes, he doesn’t want to go to any other franchise and made his feelings known by posting a lengthy emotional message on social media.

He made it clear that he didn’t agree with the decision. A Rams loyalist, he hoped to end his career with the franchise. That isn’t happening anymore. The front office is working to find a good deal with any other franchise. They want to do it before the free agency opens on March 12.

As the news spread, the NFL world was shook. From the locker room to the fans, they had an outburst of emotions.

NFL players react to the Cooper Kupp trade decision

The memories of him playing in the royal blue jersey overwhelmed everyone. It was hard to accept. But his teammate, Puka Nacua, used the moment to lace a tinge of sarcasm and tweeted, “So I thought it was just the NBA trade season.” The only thing is, they’re trying to get him out the door in a hurry. If they try to trade him post-June 1, then the chances of a good offer are reduced because the Draft would be over by then.

Former NFL quarterback, Robert Griffin III, also commented on Cooper Kupp’s tweet and wrote, “This guy has earned it everywhere he has been. Can’t wait to see where you land brother 👊🏾” There are rumors that he might land at the Cowboys or Patriots. Their fans were all over Kupp’s post, among others, pleading with him to come over to their respective clubs.

Memes of the receiver or other moments with the Rams trended on social media. The situation just has more feelings in it. It’s a bittersweet moment for sure!