Why NFL analyst believes trading Kupp to 49ers makes sense for Rams originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

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The 49ers could be looking for a veteran wide receiver, and they may not have to look further than their division for a potential trade target.

With the NFL’s Nov. 5 trade deadline less than two weeks away, many expect San Francisco to be looking for a new wide receiver after losing Brandon Aiyuk to a season-ending knee injury in the Week 7 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs .

One wide receiver who could be available to the 49ers is Los Angeles Rams star Cooper Kupp, who The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, Mike Silver and Jourdan Rodrigue reported Tuesday, citing sources, has been discussed in trades with multiple teams.

We know what you’re thinking: The Rams would never trade Kupp to an NFC West division rival.

While the 49ers are unlikely to trade for Kupp, ESPN’s Seth Walder believes it makes sense for the Rams and would be their best option.

“The abundance of playmakers the 49ers seemed to have in August is suddenly in short supply. Brandon Aiyuk is out for the season (torn ACL/MCL), McCaffrey is still out and Deebo Samuel Sr. is suffering from a form of pneumonia,” Walder wrote. “Kupp, who is expected to return from an ankle injury soon, has gained 2.0 yards per route since early 2023 and has had long success under coach Sean McVay, so you would think Kyle Shanahan would also get the most out of him can get.

“If the Rams are willing to trade Kupp, San Francisco should be the first place they look; it’s better to take draft capital from your rival than anyone else.”

Kupp likely won’t come cheap, as the Rams are reportedly looking to acquire a second-round draft pick for the 31-year-old who has missed more than four games this season due to an ankle injury. He also has a multi-year contract with base salaries of $15 million, $12.5 million and $14.85 million over the next three seasons.

The seven-year veteran has been a thorn in the side of the 49ers for years, and if the Rams are willing to deal Kupp to a division rival, San Francisco could make a serious run at the former Pro Bowl selection.

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