Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Jaguars GM James Gladstone clarifies the team’s stance on signing Cooper Kupp, emphasizing openness to opportunities while not actively pursuing the veteran receiver.
Jacksonville, March 14, 2025 – The Jacksonville Jaguars have addressed growing speculation regarding their potential interest in signing former Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp. Speaking to reporters, Jaguars General Manager James Gladstone stated, “We’re always open to every opportunity.” While this statement leaves the door open for future possibilities, it also signals that the team is not actively pursuing Kupp at this time.
Kupp, a former All-Pro and Super Bowl MVP, was recently released by the Rams after they failed to find a trade partner. His availability has sparked considerable interest across the NFL, with fans and analysts alike speculating on his next destination. The Jaguars, with their revamped roster and ties to Kupp through their leadership, have naturally been part of the conversation.
Cooper Kupp’s Career Highlights
Cooper Kupp’s release from the Los Angeles Rams marks the end of an era for one of the league’s most productive receivers. Drafted in 2017, Kupp quickly became a cornerstone of the Rams’ offense. His career reached its pinnacle during the 2021 season when he led the NFL in receptions (145), receiving yards (1,947), and touchdowns (16), earning him both All-Pro honors and the Super Bowl MVP title.
However, injuries have plagued Kupp in recent years. Over the past three seasons, he has missed 18 games due to various setbacks. Despite these challenges, Kupp has remained effective when healthy, recording 710 receiving yards and six touchdowns in just 12 games last season.
Kupp’s release was primarily a financial decision for the Rams as they look to rebuild with younger talent like Puka Nacua. The move also frees up significant cap space for Los Angeles. Now a free agent, Kupp is expected to attract interest from teams seeking a veteran presence and proven production in their receiving corps.
Why Kupp Could Fit in Jacksonville
The Jaguars have made significant changes to their wide receiver group this offseason. They recently signed Dyami Brown to a one-year deal worth $10 million and released Christian Kirk to create cap flexibility. With Parker Washington expected to step into Kirk’s role as a slot receiver, Jacksonville appears to have addressed its immediate needs. However, adding a player of Kupp’s caliber could elevate their offense even further.
Kupp would bring elite route-running ability and leadership to Jacksonville’s young receiving corps, which includes Brian Thomas Jr. and Gabe Davis. His experience working in high-pressure situations could also benefit quarterback Trevor Lawrence as he continues to develop under head coach Liam Coen.
Interestingly, both Coen and GM James Gladstone have prior connections with Kupp from their time with the Rams organization. Coen served as an assistant coach during Kupp’s tenure in Los Angeles, while Gladstone was part of the front office that drafted him. These ties have fueled speculation that Jacksonville could be an ideal landing spot for the veteran receiver.
The Jaguars’ Cautious Approach
Despite these connections and Kupp’s potential fit within their offense, the Jaguars are approaching this situation cautiously. Gladstone’s comments suggest that while they are open to exploring opportunities, they are not actively pursuing Kupp at this time.
This cautious approach likely stems from concerns about Kupp’s injury history and financial demands. Before his release, Kupp was set to earn $20 million next season with a cap hit of nearly $30 million. While his market value as a free agent is expected to be lower, signing him would still require a significant investment.
Additionally, Jacksonville has already invested resources into strengthening its receiving corps this offseason. The team may prefer to allocate its remaining cap space toward other areas of need or preserve flexibility for future moves.
What This Means for Jacksonville
The Jaguars’ decision not to aggressively pursue Kupp reflects a broader strategy focused on sustainable roster building. Under Coen and Gladstone’s leadership, the team has emphasized developing young talent while making targeted additions through free agency.
However, Gladstone’s statement leaves room for future possibilities. Should Kupp remain unsigned or lower his financial expectations, Jacksonville could revisit this opportunity later in the offseason.
For now, the Jaguars appear content with their current roster adjustments as they prepare for the upcoming season. Fans can expect continued focus on maximizing Trevor Lawrence’s potential through strategic acquisitions and internal development.
Cooper Kupp remains one of the most intriguing free agents on the market following his release from the Rams. While his injury history raises concerns, his proven track record as an elite slot receiver makes him an attractive option for teams seeking immediate impact on offense.
For Jacksonville, signing Kupp would undoubtedly bolster their receiving corps and provide Lawrence with another reliable target. However, financial considerations and roster priorities make this move unlikely at present.
As free agency unfolds, it will be interesting to see whether circumstances change for both parties. Until then, Jaguars fans can take solace in knowing that their team remains committed to exploring every opportunity to improve under its new regime.
