Another Rams star player just got paid this offseason. Cooper Kupp just received a contract extension with the Rams worth $80 million over 3 years. $75 million guaranteed and worth over $110 million over the 5 years on contract. After signing this contract, it puts Kupp at the top of the list for receivers for the most guaranteed money ever given.
Kupp earned his extension by leading the league with 145 catches for 1,947 yards and 16 touchdowns during the regular season leading the league in all categories. Helped lead the Rams to a SuperBowl win with 2 touchdowns and sealed the Super Bowl along the way.
Post Season Stats
Receptions – 33
Receiving yards – 478
Receiving touchdowns – 3
Cooper Kupp didn’t try to be compared to other top-paid receivers saying he just wanted something to work on together between him and the Rams organization.
“Something that’s great for the team, something that’s great for me and my family as well,” Kupp said. “That place exists, and it’s just getting there.”
This comes shortly after the Rams reworked Aaron Donald’s contract to make him the highest paid non-quarterback in NFL. Other moves made by the Los Angeles Rams this offseason include extending Mathew Stafford and signing Bobby Wagner and bringing in Allen Robinson to add to WR depth.
Since the 1970 merger, Kupp is one of eight players with 5,500 receiving yards and 40 receiving touchdowns within his first five career seasons. The others are Mike Evans, A.J. Green, Calvin Johnson, Larry Fitzgerald, Randy Moss, Marvin Harrison, and Jerry Rice.
Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
Aaron Donald isn’t going anywhere and is ready to win the Lombardi trophy for 2nd year in a row. The Los Angeles Rams gave him a 40 million dollar raise in the remaining years of his current contract. Aaron will be making over 30 million a season and making him the first non-quarterback in NFL history to do so. Well deserved after helping bring a championship to the LA Rams organization.
Donald said becoming the highest paid non-quarterback wasn’t important to him when the decision was made. Donald had to evaluate certain things off the field and make sure everything felt right before making a decision. Happy to have won the championship with the team he started with and is excited to join the Rams to make a run for the title again. Donald’s wanting that feeling all over again of winning it all.
“It’s about winning for me and the pieces are here for that to come to fruition. And for me to be a piece to the puzzle and to be here right now, it’s a blessing.”
The Rams definitely have what it takes to make it back to the Super Bowl this season and with Donald leading the way they are going to be tough to stop. Although expectations are going to be high for the Rams there is no doubt the super champ Aaron Donald will continue to improve and perform at a high level.
The 2022 NFL schedule has been released and we have some great games to watch this season. We are in for a very competitive and exciting season in 2022. The rookies are looking to make their impact and some old faces in new places. And of course, the defending champs Los Angeles Rams looking to run it back for a 2nd straight championship. Let’s go over my top 10 games to watch this season.
(Week 1) Denver Broncos vs. Seattle Seahawks: In week one we have Russel Wilson in Seattle but this time as a Denver Bronco. Russel looking to start the season with a win against his former team in what most would call a revenge game but don’t this one should be considered as the organization and Russel Wilson was on good terms when the trade was made. A warm welcome is expected when Russel walks out the tunnel on the first Monday Night Football game of the season.
(Week 1) Oakland Raiders vs Los Angeles Chargers: Derek Carr earned the extension he received to stay with the Raiders, and he looks to continue to improve from the previous season. Raiders with major improvement after arguably adding the best receiver in the league in Davante Adams. Chargers and Justin Herbert look to start the season with a win in hopes of making the playoffs this season after barely missing a playoff berth after an amazing week 17 matchup with the Oakland Raiders. Both teams look to make a statement in week one as they are in what could be the toughest division in the NFL
(Week 1) Buffalo Bills vs. Los Angeles Rams: The defending champs get tested right away with a matchup against the Buffalo Bills who look to finally get over the top and make the super bowl as they have been contenders the past two seasons. The Rams have surprisingly improved their roster as well as kept the majority of their roster from the championship season. Adding Bobby Wagner to the defense to replace Von Miller who signed with the Bills in the offseason. Ram’s are favorites to win Super Bowl this season and ready to run it back with Aarron Donald leading the charge.
(Week 3) Green Bay Packers vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Aaron Rodger going into this season with a new contract but shortly after was hit with a huge surprise when the Packers organization traded away his top weapon Devante Adams. Bucs were led by Tom Brady who retired after last season, but it was a short retirement when he decided that he wasn’t done. But the headline here is a possible last matchup between two of the best to play this game in their position. A matchup we all love to see and I’m sure they won’t disappoint.
(Week 4) Kansa City Chiefs vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Rematch from 2020 Super Bowl where the Buccaneers dominated the Chiefs to take home the Lombardi trophy in a 31-9 victory. We are in for a shoot-out where it could come down to which defense can make that last stop to win the game.
(Week 5) Kansas City Chiefs vs. Oakland Raiders: In what is possibly the toughest division in football this season both teams look to take the top spot. Raiders a much-improved team from last season look to show the Chiefs that they are going to be a problem for them and will not let them win the division easily. The Chiefs won the division the past two seasons with the Raiders right behind them.
(Week 6) Philadelphia Eagles vs. Dallas Cowboys: Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliot are coming into this season with intentions of proving many wrongs that the Cowboys are winners and be contenders this season after being knocked out in the Wild Card game. Eagles’ new offense with A.J. Brown added and Jalen Hurts leading the offense look to make the playoff this season with offseason moves made to improve the roster. Everyone loves a rivalry game and this one is going to be a good one to watch on Sunday Night Football.
(Week 9) Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Los Angeles Rams: Anticipated rematch from last year’s division round where the Rams beat the Bucs in a close game 30-27. Possibly the loss that retired Brady for a short period, but he is back and looking to beat the Rams in mid-season which could be the first matchup of two if they meet in playoffs again. Just like the division round game I expect this to be a high-scoring game and down to the wire.
(Week 16) Christmas Day Games: NFL football on Christmas Day!? This season we get three games on Christmas. The first matchup is between the Packers and Miami in a Tua vs Rodgers matchup. Â Followed by the Broncos led by Russel Wilson versus Matt Stafford and the Rams. Ending the night with the Bucs against the Cardinals in a matchup that includes a Hall of Famer Tom Brady and future of the NFL in Kyler Murray
International Games this season:
Minnesota Vikings vs. New Orleans Saints / Oct 2, 9:30 a.m. ET Tottenham Hotspur Stadium / London, U.K
New York Giants vs Green Bay Packers / Oct 9, 9:30 a.m. ET Tottenham Hotspur Stadium / London, U.K.
Denver Broncos vs. Jacksonville Jaguars / Oct 30, 9:30 a.m. ET Wembley Stadium / London, U.K.
Seattle Seahawks vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers / Nov. 13, 9:30 a.m. ET Allianz Arena / Munich, Germany
San Francisco 49ers vs. Arizona Cardinals / Nov. 21 8:15 p.m. ET Estadio Azteca / Mexico City, Mexico
ALL IMAGES IN THIS ARTICLE WERE CAPTURED BY
(Photo by Aaron Ontiveroz/MediaNews Group/The Denver Post via Getty Images), (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images), (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images), (Photo by Andy Lewis/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images), (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images), (Photo by David Crane/MediaNews Group/Los Angeles Daily News via Getty Images)
The first night of the 2022 NFL Draft was an entertaining round from picks made to unexpected trades. Much to talk about from round 1 but let’s review 5 of the top picks from day one. Guys that look to make an immediate impact on their new teams and one pick that stood out the most in my eye.
Jacksonville Jaguars #1 / Travon Walker
Let’s start with Travon Walker out of the University of Georgia going No. 1 to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Walker was a surprise pick at No. 1 when most expected for Jaguars to select Hutchinson from Michigan. But the pick has been made so let’s go over what Walker brings to the Jaguars defense.
Walker is an Edge Defender with speed running a 4.51 40 time at the combine. Definitely brings size to the Jags d-line standing at 6’5″ 272lbs. Combination of bulk, height, length, and speed that Walker brings to this Jags defense. Great pass rusher that can lineup anywhere on the line and also drop back into coverage.
Jaguars taking Walker at No. 1 in hopes that it will boost their sack numbers from the previous season when they ranked 27th in the league with 32 sacks. Travon is a day 1 starter and lined up with Josh Allen the team’s most feared edge rusher Travon could contribute from the jump. Potentially a double-digit sack player from any spot on the d-line. A duo to keep an eye on in the AFC South.
Houston Texans #3 / Derek Stingley Jr.
Houston Texans who still have many questions on the offensive side of the ball went defense and selected CB Derek Stingley Jr. at No. 3. Texans taking Derek’s look to improve their secondary which has not been the great past couple of seasons. Stingley Jr. brings plenty to the table to help improve the Texan’s secondary and be a true CB1.
Stingley has great size at CB at 6’0″ and 190lbs and is a physical press corner. Has the ability to locate the football as he runs with the receiver using his great speed and hip movement. The only downfall to Stingley is his tackling. Tends to get stuck on blocks and takes wrong angles that leading to missed tackles. Once in Texans camp, I’m sure it will be the main part of his game to improve before the start of the season.
Overall Stingley is a great pick for the Texans who need improvement in so many areas. Day 1 starter with lockdown capabilities and elite speed. Once was the best cornerback in college and now looking to be the bright future for this Texans defense who are in desperate need of finding their guy at CB. The past hasn’t been good to the Texans with their previous CB selections in the draft and looks to change their luck with their pick of Derek Stingley Jr.
New York Giants #5 / Kayvon Thibodeaux
Giants go defense with their first of two draft picks in the top 10 this 2022 NFL Draft. Selecting Kayvon Thibodeaux out of Oregon University who is 6’4′ 254lbs. Ranking number 7 in the overall ranking for this year’s draft board. Giants look to improve their defensive line by adding Thibodeaux to play alongside last year’s pick Azeez Ojulari.
Thibodeaux brings an explosive first step that can blow past an offensive lineman or right into their pads to knock them off their line with his strength. Quick hands that keep offensive linemen unable to latch on to him. Effective moves that help him get past the lineman and pursue the ball as a run defender. Great tackler with the burst to shut down plays with chase down tackles.
With his speed on the edge and all his traits, he is a great fit for the Giant’s defense. Huge threat on the outside linebacker/defensive end spot making him a complete pass rusher the Giants need. Day 1 starter and will contribute from the jump and could end the season with double-digit sacks and be in running for defensive rookie of the year.
New York Giants # 7 / Evan Neal
With the need to improve the offensive line to open up the lanes for Saquan Barkley the Giants selected Evan Neal from the University of Alabama with the 7th pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. Neal is an offensive lineman who is 6’8″ and 337lbs. Giants had a hole to fill at RT after a late injury to last year’s starter Matthew Peart and losing Nate Solder to free agency. Evan Neal seems to be the man for the job.
Size and strength that could push back defenders once he latches on to them. Neal has a great first step for his size and moves around very well as a zone blocker as well into the second level. A wide frame that can give any defensive player trouble to get around despite not having the elite quickness. Neal is capable of playing both tackle positions which he played right in 2020 and left tackle last year at Alabama.
Evan Neal is a day 1 starter who can help improve the rush offense that ranked 24th in the league. If Neal quickly develops his skill set he can be an effective edge protector for Daniel Jones.
Pittsburgh Steelers # 20 / Kenny Pickett
This pick stood out because Pickett was the only QB taken in the first round of the draft. Kenny Pickett from Pittsburgh University staying in Pittsburgh after being selected at No. 20 by the Steelers. Steelers are in need of a new QB after the retirement of Ben Roethlisberger. Those are some big shoes to fill and many feel Pickett may not be that guy but the Steelers see something in him most don’t take him in 1st round.
Kenny Pickett has some speed when needs to run and is accurate with his throws. Great ability to buy time with good touch and timing on the long ball. Pickett is capable of getting you a first down if he has to tuck the ball and scramble. One thing that seems to stand out the most is that Pickett has smaller hands than your average QB. Something that scouts believe could be a factor in how he performs but we would just have to wait and see.
Pickett isn’t the Steelers starter on day 1 but could compete for it. Going up against a veteran in Mitchell Trubisky for the starter position. Pickett is the most NFL-ready quarterback in this year’s draft. I project he goes into the preseason and wins the starting job.
Football is one of the few sports that has extreme parity. Year after year there is a team that catches the league, fans, and the media storm. However, only two times in NFL history where a team’s odds were below (+5000) and won the Super Bowl. The first time was in 1999 as the St. Louis Rams won the world championship with and The New England Patriots in 2001 with +15000 odds.
The Los Angeles Chargers have all the pieces this year to win a championship. Right now, they have the 15th best odds at +3300. As you look around the NFL, the Chargers have one of the best top to bottom rosters. NFL General Managers and scouts grade players from an ‘A to F’ scale, and the new LA franchise has more ‘A and B rated’ players than the majority of teams in the league.
Tom Telesco and staff struck gold last year when they selected Justin Herbert with the sixth overall pick. Herbert went on to have a historic rookie season and broke four NFL records. Including most passing TDs by a rookie quarterback, most total TDs by a rookie quarterback, most 300-yard games by a rookie, and most completions by a rookie. Going into this season, former all-pro safety Derwin James is healthy after missing two seasons due to injury is ready to return to form. “Derwin is a little different because he’s one of those guys, sort of like [Rams DT] Aaron Donald where it almost doesn’t matter what position he plays. … His status among the upper-echelon of defensive players is entrenched even though the sample size is so small because he’s so dynamic and disruptive.” NFL Insider Ian Rapoport said.
The Chargers had a solid off-season by bringing in first-team All-Pro offensive lineman Corey Linsley, former Saints tight-end Jared Cook, and several guys that will make big contributions this year. Including Bryan Bulaga, Linval Joseph, Christian Covington, Matt Feiler, and Kyler Fackrell, and Oday Aboushi. Seven of the eight guys played over 43 percent of their previous team’s snaps. Prior to last year, Bulaga played over 83 percent of his snaps in 2019.
In 2020, the Chargers were top 10 in passing yards per game, third-down percentage, and total yards without their star running back Austin Ekeler who missed six games with a hamstring injury. As for the defense, the bolts ranked 25th in the NFL in passer rating on deep passes. By drafting Asante Samuel Jr who forced 30 incompletions (Tied for the second most amongst cornerbacks since 2018) and bringing in their new HC Brandon Staley who had the Rams 1st in the league in that category, they look to be on pace to improve in that area.
In previous years the Chargers’ biggest issue was finishing games. Over the past two season’s they have lost 16 games by eight points or less. Staley helped guide the Rams defense in 2020 to lead the NFL in pass defense, total defense, and scoring defense. Bringing in the first-time head coach brings in a fresh face that comes from a winning culture that will keep his young team poised in crunch time.
Assuming LA doesn’t have any major injuries, and their rookies/incoming free-agents mesh, they will be a playoff team. The back half of their schedule is very favorable, and I could see after their Week 7 bye, I could see them only losing two to three games. Not to mention the NFL added an extra playoff team that helps their chances despite being in the same division as Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs.
Every year there is a new team that makes the playoffs that didn’t the year before, this is the year for the Chargers to make some noise.
Julio Jones was traded to the Tennessee Titans for 2022 second-round, 2023 fourth-round pick, and 2023 sixth-round pick.
Jones played in Atlanta for 10 years and broke several franchise and NFL records. During his tenor in Atlanta he was a five-time All-Pro. The Titans will take on all of the seven-time Pro Bowlers $15.3 million salary for the 2021 and the remaining two years of his deal. As Atlanta will absorb $7.75 million in dead money.
The Titans now arguably have the best 1-2 punch at wide receiver position with Jones and A.J. Brown. With the addition of Jones, the Titans will be the favorite to win the AFC South. Despite playing in only nine games a year ago, Jones had 51 catches for 771 yards, and averaged 15.1 yards per catch.
