I have full confidence he'll return to form because his success is as much about his work ethic and intelligence as anything and that hasn't been diminished. He simply needs time.
He is now 6 months removed from surgery and progressing well. But will he be full go on Sept. 8th in Carolina? I doubt it. That will be a little less than 10 months from the surgery. The Rams are fortunate in that they have so many other weapons and good WR depth with Reynolds. Reynolds is not Kupp but he can start a few games and/or take additional reps with the top 3 while Kupp continues to rehab.
The Rams goal, in my opinion, should be to have Kupp back to 100% after their bye week. That's certainly not to say he won't play before that but he very well might not be playing 60-65 snaps/game before that. Julian Edelman missing the first four games last year (due to suspension) probably was great for him because by the time he returned full-time he was then 13 months removed from his injury. He did play in preseason last August, though.
So what happens with Kupp early on? Who knows right now. He obviously will not play in preseason. Does he play at all in weeks 1, 2, 3? Maybe, maybe not. I would personally lean toward not playing him at all in weeks 1 and 2. And when he does return I would limit him to around 20 snaps, then maybe 30, etc. the first 3-4 games back.
Use the versatility and depth they have to allow him the time he needs. He's a great player and in the long run he'll be back to form. Just don't push him unnecessarily to be there on Sept. 8th.
Edited 3 time(s). Last edit at 05/24/2019 04:25AM by LMU93.
