The Los Angeles Rams welcomed back star wide receiver Cooper Kupp in their impressive 30-20 victory over the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday Night Football. Kupp, who had been sidelined with an ankle injury since Week 2, made an immediate impact with five catches for 51 yards and a touchdown. But it was head coach Sean McVay’s resolute stance on Kupp’s future with the team that garnered attention amid recent trade speculation.
McVay Expects Kupp to Stay Put
When asked about the circulating trade rumors involving Kupp, McVay expressed his strong desire to keep the All-Pro receiver in Los Angeles. “I’m really glad to have Cooper back on the field,” McVay emphasized. “And that’s what I expect to stay that way.” The head coach’s unwavering commitment to Kupp comes as a reassuring sign for Rams fans anxious about potentially losing their offensive centerpiece.
Teams reached out. Some of the things that I’ve seen out there, they’re just not true.
Sean McVay on Cooper Kupp trade rumors
McVay acknowledged that while teams had inquired about Kupp’s availability, he refuted the validity of certain rumors circulating in the media. The coach’s transparent approach sends a clear message about the Rams’ intentions to keep their star receiver as they aim to turn around their season.
Kupp Focused on the Present
For his part, Kupp maintains that his focus remains solely on contributing to the Rams’ success. “I’m not thinking about that stuff,” Kupp remarked when asked about the trade speculation. Instead, the receiver used the short week of preparation as an opportunity to zero in on the task at hand and deliver a standout performance against the Vikings.
It gave me the opportunity to focus in on just being where my feet are, being able to prepare as best I can and come out here and let it rip.
Cooper Kupp on staying focused amid trade rumors
Nacua’s Surprise Return Sparks Offense
The Rams’ offense received an additional boost with the unexpected return of promising young receiver Puka Nacua. Out since Week 1 with a PCL sprain, Nacua was activated off injured reserve just before Thursday’s game. The second-year player made an immediate impact, leading the team with seven catches for 106 yards on nine targets.
McVay praised Nacua’s mentality and readiness to contribute, calling him a “war daddy” and a “stud.” The coach revealed that the decision to activate Nacua came after an impressive workout session earlier in the week, where the receiver demonstrated his fitness and eagerness to return to action.
Renewed Chemistry with Stafford
The return of Kupp and Nacua provided a much-needed spark to the Rams’ passing game, as quarterback Matthew Stafford looked reinvigorated with his top targets back on the field. McVay highlighted the established rapport between Stafford and his receivers, noting the confidence and comfort they bring to the offense.
There’s a confidence, there’s a comfort, there’s a rapport that’s been established with Matthew and Cooper over the years and then Puka and Matthew last year and then leading into this season. These guys are ballers.
Sean McVay on the chemistry between Matthew Stafford, Cooper Kupp, and Puka Nacua
The Rams will look to build upon the momentum gained from their impressive offensive performance against the Vikings. With Kupp and Nacua back in the fold and the trade speculation seemingly put to rest by McVay, the team can now focus on climbing back into playoff contention in the competitive NFC West.
As the NFL trade deadline approaches, the Rams appear steadfast in their commitment to keeping their core playmakers together. Cooper Kupp’s return and Sean McVay’s resolute stance send a strong signal that the team is not looking to rebuild but rather reload for another postseason push. With a rejuvenated offense and a determined mindset, the Rams aim to prove that their championship window remains open.
