The Chiefs had their sights on a Super Bowl MVP before they added DeAndre Hopkins.
Kansas City had discussions with the Rams about new receiver Cooper Kupp before sending a conditional fourth-round pick to the Titans in exchange for Hopkins. According to The Athletic.
The Chiefs focused on Hopkins because they wanted to avoid giving up a top draft pick and needed a partner who could shoulder the “large'' amount of the player's annual salary.
The Rams are seeking a second-round pick for Kupp, but are willing to pay Kupp's salary for the team that acquires him. As previously reported by The Athletic.
Kansas City needed help after long-term injuries sidelined Laci Rice, Marquise “Hollywood” Brown, and JuJu Smith-Schuster, who recently injured his hamstring.
In Week 7, the team turned to Travis Kelce, who has yet to score a touchdown this season, and rookie Xavier Worthy, a first-round pick. The two combined for 36 receiving yards in a 28-18 win over the 49ers.
Therefore, the back-to-back champions have checked in to acquire Kupp, whose possible acquisition recently became clear as Kupp's return approaches.
The Titans will receive a portion of Hopkins' salary. Per NFL Networkand the Rams are reportedly willing to do so as well, but the Chiefs likely preferred the cheaper option from a draft capital standpoint.
Both veteran receivers have struggled with injuries in recent years, but Kupp is the more productive player on the field.
Kupp, the 2022 Super Bowl MVP, has 18 catches for 147 yards and one touchdown in two games this year. He suffered a left ankle sprain in Week 2 and missed five games.
Hopkins has 15 catches for 173 yards and one touchdown in six games, but that number comes from passes thrown by Will Revis and Mason Rudolph.
He thinks he would be more effective teaming up with Patrick Mahomes.
Kupp is currently the top available receiver and could return Thursday against the Vikings.
The NFL trade deadline is November 5th at 4pm ET.
