Cooper Kupp, once a surefire first-round pick in fantasy football drafts, is facing a steep decline in value as the 2025 season approaches. According to data from the Fantasy Football Mock Draft Simulator, Kupp is being drafted an astonishing 20 picks later than on other platforms, indicating a significant loss of confidence among fantasy managers.
The downturn in Kupp’s fantasy stock is largely attributed to persistent injury issues. Over the last three seasons, he has missed at least five games per season, totaling 18 games since 2023. This alarming trend has led many fantasy players to avoid investing early picks in a player who has struggled to stay on the field consistently.
At 32, Kupp’s age also plays a role in this shift. Historical patterns show that wide receivers often experience a decline in performance as they enter their mid-30s, particularly when compounded by a history of lower body injuries. This situation has led fantasy managers to treat him more as a late-round option rather than a foundational player for their teams.
Additionally, Kupp’s transition to a new offense with the Seattle Seahawks presents another challenge. After spending eight seasons with the Rams, he must now adapt to a new system, a process that requires time and rapport with new teammates. This comes at a crucial age where players may find it harder to adjust quickly.
Kupp’s red zone usage, a critical area for scoring in fantasy football, has also dwindled. Last season marked a career-low 20.4% target rate in the red zone, directly impacting his touchdown potential. Fewer scoring opportunities mean a capped fantasy ceiling for a player who was once a red-zone magnet.
The competition for targets is another factor contributing to Kupp’s decline. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, a promising talent in Seattle, led the NFL in slot routes last season and could limit Kupp’s effectiveness in his usual role. If Kupp is unable to secure the lead slot position or fails to see red zone targets, his chances of rediscovering his previous form become increasingly slim.
The current landscape in fantasy football has led many to see Kupp as a potential sleeper rather than a reliable starter. While taking a chance on him in the later rounds carries some risk, it also presents an opportunity for those willing to gamble on his bounce-back potential. However, this comes with the caveat of needing a healthy season, sufficient target volume, and a smooth transition into a new offense.
Ultimately, the consensus among fantasy managers is clear: Kupp’s era as a top choice is likely behind him. The market is responding to his declining status and adjusting accordingly, highlighting the importance of recognizing when a star’s prime may have passed. This caution could lead savvy drafters to find a safer option in a deeper wide receiver class as they build their rosters.