The Green Bay Packers missed out on adding a veteran wide receiver this offseason. Should GM Brian Gutekunst have done more to sign a proven playmaker?
A Missed Opportunity
Several top receivers could have been great fits for Green Bay, including Davante Adams, DK Metcalf, and Cooper Kupp. Adams had a history with the team and praised quarterback Jordan Love. Metcalf offered an ideal mix of size, speed, and youth. Kupp, known for his productivity and connection to coach Matt LaFleur, was the only one the Packers seriously pursued.
Despite their interest, Kupp chose to sign with the Seattle Seahawks, returning to his home state of Washington. Monday Morning Quarterback analysts debated key moves general managers should have made, and for the Packers, the consensus was clear—signing Kupp.
“If I were Packers GM Brian Gutekunst, I would’ve done everything possible to sign Kupp,” said Iain MacMillan.
Why Kupp Would Have Helped
At 32 years old, Kupp could have provided much-needed leadership for Green Bay’s young but inconsistent receiving corps. Last season, the Packers finished third in the NFL in total drops, with their receivers leading the league in missed catches.
Among receivers with at least 50 targets:
Dontayvion Wicks had the second-highest drop rate
Jayden Reed ranked third-highest
Romeo Doubs placed 19th
To make matters worse, the team’s most reliable pass-catcher, Christian Watson, is now out with a torn ACL.
A veteran like Kupp, known for his sure hands, could have stabilized the group. “His impact off the field may have been even more important than his impact on the field,” MacMillan noted.
Concerns About Kupp’s Durability
While Kupp’s leadership and experience are valuable, his recent injury history raises concerns.
In 2021, he dominated the league, winning the Receiving Triple Crown with:
145 receptions
1,947 yards
16 touchdowns
However, since then, injuries have slowed him down. He played only nine games in 2022 before missing the rest of the season. He also missed five games in both 2023 and 2024, appearing in just 24 of the Rams’ 42 regular-season games over the past two-and-a-half seasons.
The Challenge of Signing Kupp
After being released by the Rams, Kupp signed a three-year, $45 million contract with the Seahawks. A Washington native who starred at Eastern Washington, Seattle was a natural fit. Given his contract and personal ties to the area, convincing him to choose Green Bay would have been a difficult—and expensive—task.
Declining Efficiency
Beyond injuries, Kupp’s production has dipped. Last season, he caught 67 passes for 710 yards in 12 games, but his efficiency was concerning. His 47.0% success rate ranked 71st among receivers with at least 50 targets, meaning many of his catches failed to move the chains or sustain drives.
Kupp’s Confidence in His Game
Despite these concerns, Kupp remains confident in his abilities.
“If I wasn’t still capable of making plays, I wouldn’t be playing football anymore,” Kupp said after signing with Seattle. “I still see myself as an ascending player. Any narrative suggesting otherwise comes from someone who hasn’t watched a lot of film.”
While Kupp believes he has plenty left in the tank, the Packers ultimately passed on signing an aging, injury-prone receiver. Whether that decision was a mistake or a wise move remains up for debate.
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