By james art Now this New Orleans Saints star running back Alvin Kamara signed extensionthe ship has sailed for a possible reunion with Sean Payton. The Denver BroncosThe search continues for a talented playmaker to fill Peyton’s elusive “joker” role.
Payton would probably be just as happy to get a bona fide pass-catching tight end or dynamic receiver to bolster his ranks going forward. Trade rumors are as plentiful as fall leaves on the ground right now, and with the 4-3 Broncos in the playoff race, they’ve been floated as one of the potential trade destinations for Los Angeles Rams star wide receiver Cooper Cup.
Trade rumors may be a distraction, but Kupp drew a line under the latest rumors, proudly announcing his commitment to the Rams.
“I’m aware of that, but at the end of the day, I mean, I’m going to be where my feet are,” Kupp said via ESPN. “That’s all I know. I have work to do here. And I’m very proud to give everything I can for the guys in this building and to be able to step on the field knowing that I’ve prepared the best I can. And for seven and a half years, I was an LA Ram and I took that approach every day.”
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At this time of year, Kupp’s declarations amount to a hill of beans. The fact is, Kupp doesn’t make the seismic front-office moves that determine whether players stay or go each season.
Kupp hasn’t played since Week 2, when he sprained his ankle vs Arizona Cardinals. The explosive pass rusher’s stint on injured reserve is finally over, so he will likely play Thursday night against Minnesota Vikings.
If the 2-4 Rams drop another game, GM Les Snead is expected to become an enthusiastic seller at the Nov. 5 trade deadline. Interest in the Rams’ 31-year-old spark plug will be healthy around the league, but his price tag could rise significantly.
The Broncos have been linked to Kupp, but as always, a potential trade will involve much more than pure stock. Kupp would add a real X-factor and serious production to the Broncos’ very inexperienced receiving corps.
Throughout his storied career, the former Super Bowl champion has been equally adept at picking up solid yards in pursuit of the bigger plays, which will be extremely attractive to contending teams. If Broncos GM George Payton has solid interest in trading for Kupp at his advanced age, the cost issues of acquiring him and his salary will come up.
As for Kupp’s recent sting on IR, his desire to get back on the field is undisputed. He’s always been a ballplayer and obedient leader who believes he has plenty of tread left on his tires.
“To be able to have a full offseason this year and be able to build on that and put in the work to get ready to do something this year,” Kupp said. “I feel really confident that I can come back now knowing that I have that base and I can play really good football.”
All of that sounds very appealing indeed, but given the Broncos’ commitment to quickly beating Russell Wilson’s salary cap dead ends, absorbing the massive 30-something salary might be a bridge too far. Cupp counts an impressive $29.8 million this year against the cap and an equally daunting $27.3 million in 2026 before his contract expires.
For any potential deal to work, the Rams would have to be very accommodating financially, perhaps even paying Kupp significantly to play elsewhere. He would have to be willing to renegotiate his contract, perhaps drastically, before any workable middle ground could be established.
Trade rumors are one thing, but turning them into reality is quite another.
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