SEATTLE — Cooper Kupp’s Perspective Ahead of NFC Championship Game

If only there was a bit of vindictiveness in Cooper Kupp, it might change how things are shaping up. The Seattle Seahawks wide receiver is about to face his former team, the Rams, in what could be seen as a grudge match.

These are the same Rams for whom Kupp put his heart and soul into his game, accumulating 634 catches, 7,776 yards, and 57 touchdowns throughout seven outstanding seasons.

Yet, the way his departure unfolded, it somehow feels more fitting for a lesser player than someone as beloved and accomplished as Kupp. Last March, when his exit happened, he faced it with disappointment, and anyone with a sense of honor would understand why. Kupp’s feelings about this upcoming game definitely carry weight—he has a right to stand up for himself.

But, that’s just not who Kupp is.

Don’t hold your breath for social media fireworks where he sets everything ablaze. You won’t hear him slipping in any passive-aggressive comments either. That’s not in his playbook.

His bond with Matthew Stafford, quarterback for the Rams and a Super Bowl winner, is significant, yet it seems Kupp has moved on.

His past seems altogether behind him now. The struggles, emotions, and journeys—it feels as distant as any of their players who have joined the Seahawks recently.

“Things build up one day at a time,” Kupp reflected. “Each player has a unique story that has led them here. We’ve all been on a journey to understand what this year means for us and how we got to this point.”

To make everything about himself? That’s a notion Kupp has always shunned.

Throughout his journey, from being a lesser-known recruit at Eastern Washington to waiting until the third round of the NFL Draft, he held on to positivity. Despite having impressive college stats—6,464 receiving yards and 73 touchdowns—he was still the 69th player chosen.

Kupp brushed off the perceived slight.

Every player has a history that shapes their current narrative.

“My player is just one of 53 players on that field,” Kupp stated, emphasizing unity.

It’s been a whirlwind for him, moving from Southern California to now being with the Seahawks in his home state, with a shot at the Super Bowl while taking on the Rams.

“This is an incredible storyline, and I’m really excited about it,” Kupp admitted, but he quickly redirected focus back to his role with Seattle. With 47 receptions for 593 yards and two touchdowns this season, he’s been instrumental in aiding quarterback Sam Darnold and newcomer Jackson Smith-Njiba.

“This is all about the Seahawks and the NFC Championship,” he asserted. “The players all have different stories, and we play for each other. It’s powerful when you’re all committed not just to your purpose but for the guy next to you.”

His teammates value his input, especially as someone with Super Bowl experience.

“Having someone like Coop with playoff experience is definitely beneficial,” Darnold said. “His leadership is critical.”

Coach Mike McDonald echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of Kupp’s insight for the team.

“We’ve consulted him every step of the way. His experience helps maintain our focus and can relieve pressure, which allows us to hone in on what matters most,” McDonald explained.