Veteran WR Cooper Kupp leads Seahawks ahead of Super Bowl

Kupp embraces secondary role, sets example for younger teammates in first season with Seattle

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Despite not matching his historic 2021 season, veteran wide receiver Cooper Kupp has made a major impact on the Seahawks in his first year with the team. Kupp has embraced a secondary role behind the team's leading receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, impressing teammates with his unselfishness and leadership. The 32-year-old has also stood out for his exceptional run-blocking and preparation, serving as a mentor to younger players like Rashid Shaheed. Kupp is poised to play in his second Super Bowl in three years, this time with a new team, as the Seahawks take on the New England Patriots.

Why it matters

Kupp's ability to adapt to a supporting role and continue to make a major impact on and off the field highlights his veteran leadership and team-first mentality. His example sets the tone for the Seahawks' young receiving corps as they prepare for the biggest game of the season.

The details

After eight standout seasons with the Los Angeles Rams, including an MVP performance in Super Bowl LVI, Kupp joined the Seahawks in the offseason. While he didn't match his historic 2021 campaign, Kupp has embraced being the team's second option behind breakout star Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Teammates have praised Kupp's unselfishness and leadership, noting how he has set the standard for run-blocking despite his smaller stature. Kupp's football IQ and preparation have also made a strong impression, with quarterback Sam Darnold calling him "one of those guys where the entire room is dead silent" when he speaks up.

  • Kupp joined the Seahawks in the 2025 offseason after being released by the Rams.
  • Kupp will play in his second Super Bowl in three years on Sunday, February 9, 2026.

The players

Cooper Kupp

A 32-year-old veteran wide receiver in his first season with the Seattle Seahawks after eight exemplary years with the Los Angeles Rams, including an MVP performance in Super Bowl LVI.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba

The Seahawks' leading receiver this season, who has emerged as a star in his own right.

Sam Darnold

The Seahawks' starting quarterback, who has praised Kupp's leadership and impact on the team.

Dareke Young

A Seahawks wide receiver who has been impressed by Kupp's unselfishness and team-first mentality.

Rashid Shaheed

A young Seahawks wide receiver who has looked to Kupp as a mentor, trying to emulate the veteran's success.

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What they’re saying

“He won a Triple Crown, and then he comes and he's wide receiver No. 2. Some receivers might not like that. But, you can't tell if it upsets him or not. … that's just a guy that you aspire to be like, that's just team first.”

— Dareke Young, Seahawks wide receiver (wbal.com)

“If he does say things, he's one of those guys where the entire room is dead silent, and they're super focused on what he's saying because we know that he doesn't waste his breath. He's always going to be able to say something very mindful, and for us, speaking for the players, but also the coaches, he's had a huge impact on all of us in that building.”

— Sam Darnold, Seahawks quarterback (wbal.com)

“Being his teammate, I see how he's had so much success throughout his whole career. Man, he's so smart. I try to take bits and pieces from not only practice film, but from what he says in the meeting room. It's like having another coach on the field. He's an amazing guy.”

— Rashid Shaheed, Seahawks wide receiver (wbal.com)

What’s next

The Seahawks will face the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX on Sunday, February 9, 2026.

The takeaway

Cooper Kupp's ability to adapt to a secondary role and continue to lead by example has been a key factor in the Seahawks' success this season. His veteran presence and team-first mentality have set the tone for the team's young receiving corps as they prepare for the biggest game of the year.