INGLEWOOD, Calif. — Perhaps we should reconsider our thoughts on Cooper Kupp and the Los Angeles Rams.

Winning can often clear the air and lift spirits. That might be the case for the Rams after they triumphed over the Minnesota Vikings with a score of 30-20, marking their second consecutive victory and bringing their season record to 3-4.

“I have faith in this team. I trust the coaches and players. I observed determination on the field. There was no panic,” Rams coach Sean McVay stated.

“We’re still on a long journey. We’ve managed to win two games in five days, but it’s just that — two games. We’ve made progress toward our goals. I’m eager about what lies ahead. We’ve gained a lot of insights in these first seven weeks,” McVay continued. “We’ve faced numerous challenges with new players stepping in unexpectedly. As we welcome back familiar faces, we anticipate more progress in the coming weeks, and we need to be ready to hit the ground running.”

The Rams are recovering from an early-season 1-4 start and are regaining strength at a crucial time. Kupp and Puka Nacua made their returns from injuries on Thursday night, with more reinforcements likely on the way as offensive linemen Steve Avila, Jonah Jackson, and defensive back John Johnson approach their comebacks.

Kupp and Nacua hold the key to making the Rams serious contenders in the NFC. Together, the two receivers accumulated 12 catches for 157 yards and a touchdown on 17 targets during the win.

“These players bring tremendous energy and confidence to our squad. Their presence is felt throughout the team, not just on offense. The defense feeds off their plays as well,” Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford remarked. “I’m proud of their competitiveness — they show up and perform for our team, and that’s crucial.”

Kupp has been the subject of trade discussions with the NFL’s deadline of November 5 approaching. However, the Rams’ recent victory should help diminish those conversations. They should retain the 2021 NFL Offensive Player of the Year and Super Bowl 56 MVP.

The NFC West is currently very competitive. Defending NFC champions, the San Francisco 49ers, are dealing with several injuries; the Arizona Cardinals have shown inconsistency, and the Seattle Seahawks, who are leading the division, are only one game ahead of the Rams in terms of losses. Next week, the Rams will face the Seahawks in Seattle.

“I’m not preoccupied with those thoughts,” Kupp responded after being asked about the trade rumors. “It exists, but I’m focused on what’s going on here. During a short week, every second is dedicated to preparing for the game.”

“It allowed me to concentrate and remain present. I aimed to prepare thoroughly and give my best on the field. Everything beyond that is secondary.”

Two standout plays on Thursday exemplified why Kupp remains a valuable asset for the Rams.

The first took place in the second quarter when Stafford maneuvered to evade two Vikings defenders and connected with Kupp in the back of the end zone for a touchdown.

The second play came with fewer than four minutes left in the fourth quarter, where Kupp made a vital 27-yard catch on a critical third-and-9 that helped the Rams control the clock effectively.

Kupp concluded the game with five receptions totaling 51 yards and a touchdown. In his eighth season, he now boasts career totals of 590 catches and 7,264 receiving yards, ranking him fourth in Rams franchise history.

At 31 years old, he is merely four receptions away from overtaking Henry Ellard for third all-time on the Rams’ receptions list. If he maintains his health and remains with the team, that milestone is well within reach.

McVay expressed strong support for this possibility.

“Much of what’s been circulated is merely speculation,” McVay commented. “We prioritize internal discussions. I’m truly happy to have Cooper Kupp back with us, and I intend for that to remain true.”