Cooper Kupp made his 2023 debut on Sunday against the Eagles after missing the first four games of the season, but it’s not as if the Rams eased him back into action by keeping him on a snap count and limiting his workload. They cut him loose and let him play his usual number of snaps, staying on the field for just about every play on offense.
According to Mike Clay of ESPN, Kupp played 52 of a possible 55 snaps, or 94%. That’s about what Kupp usually plays and you certainly wouldn’t get the sense that the Rams were holding him back at all.
Not to mention, he was targeted 12 times, caught eight passes and totaled 118 yards. Again, that’s a typical stat line for the 2021 Offensive Player of the Year.
On the first drive alone, Kupp caught five passes for 56 yards, getting right into the action in his first game back.
Cooper Kupp:
52 of 55 snaps (94.%)
12 targets
8 receptions
118 yards— Mike Clay (@MikeClayNFL) October 8, 2023
Sean McVay said leading into the game that he was going to see how Kupp felt throughout the afternoon and gauge his workload based on the receiver’s feedback about how his hamstring is feeling. Those soft-tissue injuries can be difficult to return from because they’re so prone to aggravation, but McVay and Kupp seemed to feel good about him playing almost every snap.
Next week against the Cardinals, Kupp should see a similar workload and maintain his role as the No. 1 receiver. Puka Nacua is a fantastic No. 2 option, but it sure looks like Kupp is ready to be Stafford’s top target again.