As of March 28, 2025, there are no confirmed reports indicating that the Carolina Panthers are finalizing a trade to acquire Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp. While the Rams have been rumored to be considering a trade involving Kupp this offseason, no credible sources have confirmed a finalized deal with the Panthers.
The Cooper Kupp Trade Rumors
Cooper Kupp has been one of the NFL’s elite wide receivers since his breakout 2021 season, during which he won the NFL’s receiving triple crown—leading the league in receptions, yards, and touchdowns—while also being named Super Bowl MVP. However, in recent years, injuries and cap constraints have led to speculation that the Rams might move on from him as they seek to rebuild their roster.
There have been discussions about potential landing spots for Kupp, with teams looking to bolster their receiving corps. However, the Carolina Panthers have not been widely mentioned among those actively pursuing him. Instead, franchises with more immediate Super Bowl aspirations, such as the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and New England Patriots, have been seen as more likely suitors.
Financial and Injury Considerations
One of the biggest obstacles in trading Kupp is his contract. He signed a three-year, $80 million extension with the Rams in 2022, and while he remains a high-caliber player, his cap hit is significant. Teams trading for him would have to take on a large portion of his salary or negotiate a restructuring.
Additionally, Kupp has battled injuries over the last two seasons, missing multiple games due to ankle and hamstring issues. While he remains a productive receiver when healthy, concerns about durability could impact his trade value. The Panthers, a team still in the midst of a rebuild, may not want to take on a player with potential health risks, especially at a high financial cost.
Would the Panthers Be a Fit?
The Carolina Panthers have been seeking offensive weapons to support quarterback Bryce Young, who struggled in his rookie season due to a lack of elite playmakers and a weak offensive line. Adding a veteran receiver like Kupp could theoretically help Young’s development, but given the Panthers’ current roster situation, making a move for an aging star with a large contract may not be the best strategy.
Furthermore, NFL analysts have warned that trading for Kupp might not align with Carolina’s long-term goals. The Panthers are in the process of rebuilding, and giving up high-value draft picks for a veteran receiver may not be the wisest move. Instead, Carolina could focus on acquiring young talent through the draft or targeting a younger receiver in free agency.
Conclusion
At this moment, no verified reports confirm that the Panthers are finalizing a trade for Cooper Kupp. While rumors surrounding a potential trade involving Kupp continue, there is no official confirmation of a deal with Carolina. Until reputable sources report otherwise, the claim that the Panthers have finalized a blockbuster trade for the Rams’ star receiver should be treated with skepticism.
