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As the NFL's Nov. 5 trade deadline approaches, teams across the league are buzzing with speculation. One name that's been floating around is none other than Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp. Coming off a multi-week absence due to injury, Kupp finds himself the subject of trade rumors, but the seasoned receiver remains laser-focused on his role in Los Angeles.
It's been a tough stretch for the Rams, who have struggled to find consistency without Kupp in the lineup. Fans and analysts alike have pondered whether the team might consider trading their star wideout to shake things up. For Kupp, though, the rumors are just noise in the background of his daily grind.
"I'm aware of it, but at the end of the day, I mean, I'm going to be where my feet are,"Kupp said when asked about the swirling trade rumors. "That's all I know. I have a job to do here. And I take a lot of pride in giving everything I can for the guys in this building."
The veteran receiver made it clear that despite the speculation, his commitment to the Rams has not wavered. "For seven and a half years, I've been an L.A. Ram, and I've taken that approach every single day," he added. Kupp's focus now is on returning to the field and helping his team, regardless of what might be happening behind the scenes.
Kupp hasn't played since Week 2, where he sustained a sprained ankle in a loss to the Arizona Cardinals. Before the injury, the 30-year-old receiver had posted impressive stats, tallying 18 receptions for 147 yards and a touchdown in just two games. While his absence has been felt, the Rams have had to adapt, with younger receivers stepping up in his place.
Cooper Kupp eyes return as Rams look for offensive boost against Vikings
Tuesday's practice provided a glimmer of hope for Rams fans, as Kupp was estimated to be a full participant. The practice was a walkthrough given the short week, with the Rams slated to face the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday night. All signs point toward Kupp making his much-anticipated return, though his workload remains uncertain.
"I don't like coming off the field,"Kupp said with a smile. "I would love to play as much as possible, and that's going to be my mindset." However, Kupp acknowledged that his return would be a collective decision made by the coaches and training staff.
With key matchups ahead, the Rams need all the firepower they can get. Kupp's ability to elevate the offense is well-documented, and his leadership in the locker room is invaluable. Even with trade rumors in the background, the Rams know that getting their star receiver back on the field is the priority.
As for the trade chatter, Kupp remains grounded. "Whatever happens outside of that, I've got to control what I can control," he said, adding that his focus is solely on being the best Ram he can be.
The Rams are hopeful that Kupp's return will provide the spark they need to turn the season around. Whether or not he stays with the team post-trade deadline, Kupp's dedication to the game-and to the Rams-has never been in question.