Los Angeles Rams, star wide receiver Cooper Kupp’s availability for the Week 1 clash against the Seattle Seahawks has been officially ruled out by head coach Sean McVay. The reason behind this unfortunate setback is a nagging hamstring injury that has been troubling Kupp in recent weeks.

McVay also hinted at the possibility that Kupp could be placed on injured reserve, a move that would sideline him for a minimum of four games. The uncertainty surrounding Kupp’s injury has raised concerns within the Rams’ organization, and McVay admitted that there isn’t much more information available at this time, simply stating that Kupp is “dealing with some soft tissue stuff.”

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Kupp’s hamstring injury has been a source of concern for the Rams, and his recent setback prompted him to seek consultation from a prominent specialist to better understand the root of the issue. NFL Media reports have also indicated that the Rams are proceeding with utmost caution when it comes to Kupp’s recovery.

With Cooper Kupp ruled out for Week 1, the Rams are forced to adjust their offensive game plan. One player who could step into the spotlight is Van Jefferson, who now has an opportunity to become quarterback Matthew Stafford’s primary target. Jefferson had a breakout season in 2021, amassing 50 receptions for 802 yards and contributing six touchdowns to the Rams’ offense.

Apart from Jefferson, the Rams’ depth chart includes Tutu Atwell, Ben Skowronek, Puka Nacua, and Demarcus Robinson as other wide receiver options. These players will need to step up in Kupp’s absence and help maintain the team’s offensive firepower.

Cooper Kupp’s injury woes are unfortunately not a new development. Last season, he missed a total of eight games due to a high-ankle sprain that required surgery. Despite the limited playing time, Kupp managed to put up impressive numbers, recording 75 receptions for 812 yards and scoring six touchdowns in just nine games.

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Kupp’s remarkable performance in 2021 didn’t go unnoticed, and he became the first player since 2005 to win the NFL’s triple crown, leading the league in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns. His extraordinary contributions played a pivotal role in the Rams’ Super Bowl LVI victory over the Cincinnati Bengals.

Kupp’s standout season in 2021 was duly rewarded with a lucrative contract extension. Last summer, he inked a three-year, $80 million deal, solidifying his place as one of the league’s premier wide receivers.