Kupp to the Chargers? Analyzing How the Veteran WR Fits in LA’s Offense

The Los Angeles Chargers are entering a new era under head coach Jim Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Greg Roman. After an 11-6 season in 2024, capped by a disappointing Wild Card loss to the Houston Texans, the team is looking to retool and build a roster capable of making a deeper playoff run. One area of focus this offseason is the wide receiver position. With the need for a reliable target for Justin Herbert, the question arises: Could Cooper Kupp be a fit for the Chargers’ offense?

The Chargers’ Current WR Situation

As it stands, the Chargers’ receiving corps has some potential but lacks a proven, established star. Ladd McConkey is coming off a stellar rookie season, racking up 82 receptions for 1,149 yards and 7 touchdowns. The team also brought back Mike Williams on a one-year deal. However, Williams’s performance in 2024 with the New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers was underwhelming, and his explosiveness is a question mark after a serious knee injury in 2023. Quentin Johnston has yet to live up to his first-round draft status, and Joshua Palmer is now with the Buffalo Bills.

Why Kupp Could Be a Target

Proven Production: Despite recent injury struggles, Cooper Kupp has demonstrated the ability to be one of the league’s most productive receivers. In 2021, he achieved the receiving triple crown, leading the NFL in receptions (145), receiving yards (1,947), and receiving touchdowns (16).
Fit with Herbert: Kupp’s skillset could complement Justin Herbert’s strengths. Kupp excels in the short and intermediate passing game, while Herbert has shown a tendency to throw underneath.
Veteran Leadership: Kupp’s experience and Super Bowl pedigree could bring valuable leadership to a relatively young Chargers offense.
Familiarity: Kupp would get to stay in Los Angeles, which could be a draw for the veteran receiver.

The Potential Downsides

Injury History: Kupp has struggled with injuries over the past three seasons, missing a significant number of games.
Age and Decline: At 32 years old, Kupp is no longer in his prime. His production has declined since his dominant 2021 season.
Contract: Kupp signed a 3-year, $80.1 million contract with the Rams in 2022. While the Chargers have cap space, Kupp’s contract may not be the best use of resources.
Scheme Fit: With the Chargers expected to emphasize a run-heavy offense under Greg Roman, Kupp’s role may be diminished compared to his time with the Rams.

Analyzing Kupp’s Fit in Roman’s Offense

Greg Roman is known for his run-heavy offensive schemes that prioritize physicality and play-action passing. In 2025, the Chargers are expected to feature a strong running game with J.K. Dobbins and rookie TreVeyon Henderson. This approach aims to take pressure off Justin Herbert and improve the team’s overall efficiency.

While Kupp may not be the primary focus in a run-first offense, he could still play a valuable role as a reliable target in the passing game. His ability to run precise routes and make contested catches in the short and intermediate areas could make him a valuable asset on third downs and in the red zone.

Other WR Options for the Chargers

If the Chargers decide to pass on Kupp, there are other wide receiver options they could pursue:

Keenan Allen: A reunion with the former Charger could make sense, as Allen has expressed a desire to return to Los Angeles.
Tee Higgins: Higgins is one of the top free-agent wide receivers available and would provide Justin Herbert with a top-tier target.
DK Metcalf: Metcalf could be available via trade as the Seattle Seahawks look to reset their books.
Brandon Aiyuk: Aiyuk could be acquired via trade with the San Francisco 49ers.

The Verdict

Whether or not Cooper Kupp ends up with the Chargers remains to be seen. While his talent and experience are undeniable, his injury history, age, and contract situation make him a risky proposition. Ultimately, the Chargers’ decision will depend on their evaluation of Kupp’s health and his fit within Greg Roman’s offensive scheme. As the Chargers look to maximize Justin Herbert’s potential and build a Super Bowl contender, the wide receiver position will be one to watch closely this offseason.