Cooper Kupp injury in Week 11 poses tough dilemma for Rams season

The LA Rams won 12 games in 2021 thanks in large part to the heroics of All-Pro wide receiver Cooper Kupp. That was a career-high season for Kupp, and a record shattering season in the LA Rams record books. Kupp even pushed the NFL single season records for receivers. But that was then, this is now.

Kupp has not been nearly the same this season. He is 30 years old, coming off a significant injury one year ago, and has already missed the first four games of the 2023 NFL season. Worst of all, he is barely catching 51 percent of the passes thrown his way and has just one touchdown in 45 targets this season.

The problems on the Rams offense have gotten worse. In a Week 11 contest with an abysmal effort from the offense, the Rams have to face the loss of veteran wide receiver Cooper Kupp in the first half of a closely contested game.

The LA Rams had to learn how to compete in the first four games of the 2023 NFL season without Cooper Kupp, and played to a 2-2 record. Since his return, the Rams have played to a 1-4 record. While I am not suggesting that the Rams losses are a result of Kupp, the Rams can play competitive football without Kupp starting.

Rams now need to pivot to younger contributors

In many ways, the Rams offense resembles a 40-year-old balding man who drives a convertible, and believe that he is still quite the looker driving around is a good-looking car. The Rams offense is not getting the same production out of Kupp in 2023 as 2021, even before the injury in Week 11.

While we don't have any reports as to what Kupp's injury in terms of diagnosis or severity, his injury has certainly changed the landscape for the Rams going forward. With the Rams trailing in Week 11 by a score of 16-7.

With a Rams roster still exhibiting a need for more help, the Rams may be better off sitting some veterans and playing rookies who have a chance of larger roles in 2024. Rookie running back Zach Evans, defensive back Tre Tomlinson, and tight end Davis Allen should all be getting playing time.