Great News for Giants: Joe Schoen Hints at$80.1 Million Star Free Agent Signing After Release
The NFL offseason just got a lot more interesting for the New York Giants. In a surprising turn of events, the Los Angeles Rams have officially released star wide receiver Cooper Kupp after failing to find a suitable trade partner. Kupp, who had two years remaining on his three-year, $80 million contract, is now a free agent and could become a game-changing addition for the Giants. General Manager Joe Schoen has reportedly shown interest in Kupp, raising hopes among Giants fans that the team may be on the verge of adding a proven playmaker to their offense.
Cooper Kupp’s Journey with the Rams
Cooper Kupp’s release marks the end of an incredible era in Los Angeles. Drafted in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft out of Eastern Washington, Kupp quickly established himself as one of the league’s most reliable and productive receivers. His historic 2021 season remains one of the greatest individual performances by a wide receiver in NFL history — Kupp led the league in receptions (145), receiving yards (1,947), and touchdowns (16), earning the coveted “triple crown.” He capped off that dominant season with a Super Bowl MVP performance, hauling in the game-winning touchdown pass against the Cincinnati Bengals in Super Bowl LVI.
However, the past few seasons have been challenging for Kupp. Injuries have taken their toll, as he missed significant time over the last three years, including a high-ankle sprain that required surgery in 2022. In the 2024 season, Kupp played in 12 games, posting 67 receptions for 710 yards and six touchdowns — respectable numbers but a decline from his peak form. His $29.78 million cap hit for 2025 made him difficult to trade, ultimately leading to the Rams’ decision to release him as a post-June 1 cut to save $15 million in cap space.
Why the Giants Could Be the Perfect Fit
Joe Schoen’s rumored interest in Kupp makes perfect sense. Kupp’s precise route-running, strong hands, and ability to create separation in tight coverage would provide a massive boost for the Giants’ struggling offense. Kupp’s versatility in lining up in the slot or outside would also give the Giants the flexibility to create mismatches against opposing defenses.
Schoen’s Strategy and the Financial Puzzle
Signing Kupp won’t come without financial challenges. Kupp’s previous contract averaged over $26 million per year, and while his value may have decreased slightly due to recent injuries, he is still expected to command a significant salary on the open market. The Giants currently have limited cap space, so Schoen would need to navigate the financial landscape carefully. This could involve restructuring existing contracts or creating cap room through roster moves.
Conclusion
Cooper Kupp’s release has created a rare opportunity for the Giants to add a proven, elite playmaker to their offense. While challenges like cap space and Kupp’s recent injury history remain, the potential upside of adding a player of Kupp’s caliber could be a game-changer for the Giants. If Schoen can pull off this signing, the Giants could suddenly find themselves with one of the most dangerous offenses in the NFC.
