The Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Cooper Kupp recently left the field after securing a victory over the Los Angeles Rams in the 2026 NFC Championship Game. While Kupp provides valuable veteran leadership, his hefty salary has drawn scrutiny.
In the 2025 offseason, the Seahawks made significant moves, particularly in free agency, acquiring notable veterans including quarterback Sam Darnold, wide receiver Kupp, and defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence. These acquisitions were met with skepticism, as many questioned whether Darnold was truly a worthy successor to Geno Smith. Concerns also arose regarding the age and salaries of both Lawrence and Kupp. However, the Seahawks proved the critics wrong with a remarkable 2025 season that culminated in a Super Bowl victory.
Despite the successful season, the criticism has resurfaced for Kupp as he was recently labeled the team”s most overpaid player by Bleacher Report analyst Brad Gagnon. Gagnon noted, “The former Offensive Player of the Year didn”t have a bad 2025 season for a 32-year-old non-centerpiece, but that”s sort of the point. He”s slated to cost the team $35.5 million over the course of the next two seasons despite the fact that he was targeted just 4.4 times per game in his debut campaign with the Seahawks. The focus has shifted to Rashid Shaheed.”
During the 2025 season, Kupp recorded 47 receptions for 593 yards and two touchdowns. While his performance was respectable, Gagnon accurately highlights that his role is expected to diminish in the upcoming season. The Seahawks” acquisition of Shaheed prior to the NFL trade deadline proved beneficial, as he emerged as a significant asset in the return game. This offseason, Shaheed signed a three-year, $51 million deal and is anticipated to play a larger offensive role. Although Shaheed lacks Kupp”s extensive experience, he represents a dynamic vertical threat that could reshape the Seahawks” offensive strategy.
Kupp”s future with the Seahawks appears secure for now. In February, $9 million of his salary became fully guaranteed, ensuring his presence on the roster for the 2026 season. Even before this guarantee, Kupp was not in immediate danger of being released. The Seahawks maintain ample cap space and would prefer to head into the season with an abundance of receiving options rather than a shortage. However, should Shaheed indeed assume the role of the No. 2 wide receiver, the possibility of the Seahawks parting ways with Kupp after this season remains a real consideration, potentially saving the team around $14 million.
