NFL Free Agency Shocker: Aaron Rodgers, Cooper Kupp Released/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Aaron Rodgers and Cooper Kupp, both former Super Bowl MVPs, were released as NFL free agency kicked off. The New York Jets moved on from Rodgers after a disappointing two-year stint. The Los Angeles Rams cut Kupp after failing to find a trade partner. Other major moves include signings of Darius Slay, DeMarcus Lawrence, and Javon Hargrave.
Rodgers, Kupp Released as NFL Free Agency Kicks Off – Quick Looks
- Rodgers’ Time in New York Ends: The Jets released Aaron Rodgers after two seasons, including a devastating Achilles injury in 2023 and a struggling 2024 campaign.
- Rams Move On From Kupp: The Rams cut Super Bowl LVI MVP Cooper Kupp, replacing him with newly acquired Davante Adams.
- Kupp’s Declining Production: Kupp hasn’t had 900+ receiving yards in the last three seasons due to injuries.
- Potential Landing Spots for Rodgers: The Giants, Steelers, and Vikings could be interested in Rodgers as they evaluate their QB options.
- Other Big Signings: Darius Slay joins Pittsburgh, DeMarcus Lawrence heads to Seattle, and Javon Hargrave signs with Minnesota.
- Trades and Extensions: The Cowboys make two trades, and Marcus Mariota re-signs with Washington.
Deep Look: Rodgers, Kupp Headline NFL Free Agency Moves
Rodgers Released After Unsuccessful Jets Run
Aaron Rodgers’ time in New York officially ended as the Jets released the four-time MVP, just two years after acquiring him in a blockbuster trade with Green Bay.
- Rodgers’ Jets tenure was disappointing:
- Tore his Achilles four snaps into his debut in 2023.
- Returned in 2024 but struggled, finishing with 28 TDs, 3,897 yards, and a 5-12 record.
- The Jets signed Justin Fields earlier this week, signaling their future direction.
Rodgers now enters free agency for the first time in his career, and several QB-needy teams could be interested, including:
- New York Giants – Still evaluating Daniel Jones’ future.
- Pittsburgh Steelers – Need a veteran to compete with Russell Wilson.
- Minnesota Vikings – If J.J. McCarthy isn’t ready to start, Rodgers could be a stopgap option.
Rams Release Kupp After Failing to Trade Him
The Los Angeles Rams released WR Cooper Kupp after failing to find a trade partner willing to take on his $20 million salary for 2025.
- Kupp’s Peak Performance:
- 2021 Offensive Player of the Year.
- Won the Triple Crown (receptions, yards, TDs) with 145 catches, 1,947 yards, and 16 TDs.
- Named Super Bowl LVI MVP, securing the Rams’ win with the game-winning TD.
- Recent Struggles:
- Injuries limited him to 12 or fewer games in each of the past three seasons.
- Failed to reach 900 receiving yards in any of those seasons.
- The Rams signed Davante Adams last week, making Kupp expendable.
Kupp now hits the open market, where teams needing a veteran receiver—such as the Chiefs, Patriots, and Panthers—could be potential suitors.
Other Major Free Agency Moves
Several teams made big defensive signings as the free agency period opened.
- Steelers Sign Darius Slay: The six-time Pro Bowl cornerback joins Pittsburgh on a one-year deal, fresh off winning a Super Bowl with Philadelphia.
- Seahawks Land DeMarcus Lawrence: Seattle signed the former Cowboys pass rusher to a three-year, $42 million deal to bolster their defense.
- Vikings Add Javon Hargrave: Minnesota continues rebuilding its defensive line, signing the former 49ers DT to a two-year, $30 million deal.
- Bills Strengthen Defense: Buffalo signed DT Larry Ogunjobi to a one-year, $8 million deal.
- Mac Jones Joins 49ers: Former Patriots QB Mac Jones signs a two-year, $7 million contract to serve as a backup to Brock Purdy.
Trades and Contract Extensions
- Cowboys Make Two Trades:
- Acquired LB Kenneth Murray Jr. from the Titans.
- Traded for CB Kaiir Elam from Buffalo to strengthen their secondary.
- Washington Re-Signs Mariota: The Commanders retain veteran QB Marcus Mariota, who will back up Jayden Daniels.
- Detroit Adds DT Roy Lopez: The Lions signed Lopez to a one-year, $4.65 million deal to strengthen their defensive line.
What’s Next in NFL Free Agency?
- Where will Rodgers land? The QB market remains fluid, with teams still evaluating their options.
- Will Kupp find a new team quickly? Several teams need a WR, but his injury history may scare away potential suitors.
- How will teams fill remaining roster gaps? Expect more signings and trades in the coming days.
As the NFL offseason heats up, expect more high-profile moves in the coming weeks.
