Is the Rams Offense Better with Davante Adams Than Cooper Kupp?
The addition of Davante Adams to the Los Angeles Rams offense is a game-changer. Adams, a five-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro wide receiver, brings a unique skill set to the team, particularly his ability to create separation organically without requiring pre-snap motion. This innate ability has made him one of the most dangerous receivers in the NFL for years. Historically, the Rams' roster has always looked formidable on paper. However, this is an organization that demands more from its players than just raw talent. For the Rams' offensive scheme to function optimally, every player, except perhaps the quarterback, must be proficient in blocking. This includes wide receivers and running backs, who must demonstrate their blocking prowess before getting significant touches.
Adams, often called the 'King of Releases,' has earned that moniker through years of excellence. His ability to create separation begins the moment the ball is snapped, allowing him to be a consistent and dangerous target. With Cooper Kupp no longer in the picture, Adams will assume the slot receiver role in 2025. Last season, Adams' performance from the slot was impressive: 41 receptions, 468 receiving yards, three touchdowns and four average yards of separation from the slot. One major question looms: Why did the Rams move on from Cooper Kupp rather than paying him $20 million in 2025, only to invest a similar amount in Adams? The answer largely comes down to availability. Since 2022, Adams has averaged 16 games per season, while Kupp has managed only 11.
Beyond availability, Adams also provides a more versatile skill set at this stage of his career. While Kupp was exceptional in Sean McVay’s system, his effectiveness relied heavily on timing, precision, and motion-based routes. Adams, on the other hand, thrives in both structured and off-script situations, making him a more dynamic and unpredictable weapon for Matthew Stafford. This flexibility allows the Rams to expand their playbook and create more opportunities downfield. Additionally, Adams’ physicality and durability give the Rams a stronger presence in contested-catch situations. Kupp was an elite route-runner but struggled at times against press coverage. Adams, with his elite footwork and hand usage, can beat defenders in a variety of ways, making him a more dangerous threat against top-tier secondaries.
Consistency and reliability are crucial for an offense that has high expectations. The Rams' coaching staff cannot afford to constantly reshuffle the lineup due to injuries. A stable presence like Adams allows them to focus on refining the team's execution rather than continuously adjusting to absences. With Adams in the fold, the Rams gain a dependable and dynamic playmaker. More importantly, his durability ensures that the coaching staff can spend more time improving the team rather than navigating injury-related setbacks. The shift from Kupp to Adams ultimately makes the Rams a more resilient and explosive offensive unit, setting them up for sustained success in 2025 and beyond.
