News broke last night that the Rams intend to trade away Cooper Kupp this offseason, and Steelers Nation is in a tizzy. Kupp is a known name and, at one time, was playing like one of the best receivers in the league. For a Pittsburgh team that needs to improve their targets this offseason, Kupp seems like a natural fit.
Add in the fact that the Steelers were reportedly interested in trading for him at the trade deadline and there should be some smoke here. While I love Kupp and his style of play, adding him this offseason via a trade is a hard move to get behind.
While finding a competent second receiver is a must this year, I don’t see how Kupp fits into this offense right now. This team is also in no position to realistically compete for a Super Bowl next season.
But is trading for a 32-year-old receiver who has struggled with injuries as of late a sound move?
The Steelers can add a wide receiver elsewhere
While Kupp is a unique player who wins with sharp route running, I’m not sure he has a clear spot on this offense. He works the short and middle of the field, and Pittsburgh doesn’t utilize either of those effectively.
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The most likely quarterback is either Russell Wilson or Justin Fields next year. Wilson relies on deep shots and yards after the catch as a passer. Fields is a similar mold of a passer, although he will force the team to be a run-heavy offense with his legs.
Assuming George Pickens sticks around (that is a whole other argument), would Kupp be a great second option for this team? I just don’t see it. Given his age as well, he would likely be closer to 35 before this team was ready to compete for anything significant. Adding him now would be a mistake.
If you really want a veteran receiver target Amari Cooper or Stefon Diggs in free agency. They can provide more than just slot and short work, and they wouldn’t cost draft capital. Better yet, go all in on a top name via trade or just draft someone early.
Again, Kupp is a good receiver and provides a unique target. Given where the Steelers are at right now though, trading for him would be a mistake. There are other ways to upgrade this room, and Kupp would benefit from a different system anyway.