Sean McVay sheds light on elite company Cooper Kupp could join with receiving triple crown

[theramswire.usatoday.com] Sean McVay sheds light on elite company Cooper Kupp could join with receiving triple crown

Skyler Carlin
January 6, 2022 9:24 am PT

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Cooper Kupp has an opportunity to break multiple records with another productive performance for the Los Angeles Rams in Week 18 versus the San Francisco 49ers. Besides being able to set the single-season receptions record and the single-season receiving yards record, Kupp could become just the fourth wide receiver in NFL history to lead the league in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns.


Ahead of what could be a historic week for Kupp, Sean McVay shed light on his thoughts about the previous wide receivers (Jerry Rice, Sterling Sharpe, and Steve Smith) that have achieved the triple crown feat.

“Incredible competitors, all three of those guys. To be mentioned in that same category is a true compliment. I know the respect that Cooper Kupp has for the history of this game and all three of those guys are so elite in their own right at playing that position,” McVay said Wednesday. “It’s a testament to the production. When you start talking about catches, yards, touchdowns – it’s unbelievable that he’s mentioned in that same category. He has to go finish it out, but he has delivered in so many different ways for us and what he does without the ball is arguably as impressive. Those people that really love studying the tape, watching the intricacies of what he does snap in and snap out, it’s pretty remarkable. You just feel fortunate to be able to work with a player like him, but all three of those guys that you just mentioned – what a special group that is. Amazing accomplishments that those men achieved. For Cooper to be mentioned in that same category and potentially be able to have his name alongside of those guys with the triple crown is a huge testament to the hard work he’s put in. Then also, being surrounded by great teammates.”

Kupp enters Sunday’s game with 138 receptions, 1,829 receiving yards, and 15 receiving touchdowns, all of which lead the league. He needs only 12 receptions and 136 receiving yards to set the single-season records for both categories.

To be mentioned in the same sentence as guys like Rice, Sharpe, and Smith is nothing to scoff at. What Kupp has done this season — regardless of whether he breaks the records or not — has been truly remarkable any way you look at it.

Even with the Rams focused on bigger things like winning a Super Bowl, McVay realizes how special it would be for Kupp to join the likes of Rice, Sharpe, and Smith.