From the moment Kupp himself announced that the Rams were trying to trade him, it seemed like an impossibility. No one would be taking on his $20 million compensation package, and Kupp had no reason to take less to facilitate a deal.

The NFL league year kicked off Wednesday with two former Super Bowl MVPs hitting the open market. The Los Angeles Rams cut receiver Cooper Kupp just days after signing Davante Adams to be his replacement and the New York Jets released quarterback Aaron Rodgers following a failed two-year stint.

The star wide receiver and team leader hasn’t found the same form since a midseason ankle injury in 2022. By designating Kupp a post-June 1 cut, the Rams save $15 million against the salary cap.