The Los Angeles Rams’ fifth-year wide receiver Tutu Atwell has yet to see the increased role many expected following his $10 million fully guaranteed contract this offseason. Despite a history of flashes in limited opportunities, Atwell has caught only one pass for four yards on three targets through the first three games of the 2025 season.
Rams HC McVay’s Take on Tutu Atwell
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Head coach Sean McVay was asked again Monday about how he plans to involve Atwell, and his response offered little clarity.
“He’s doing what he can control,” McVay said. “There are a couple chances and some things that you try to call to get guys involved. Ultimately, our job is to play the game how it unfolds. I’ve been really impressed with just the way that he’s handled himself. Our job is to move the ball and score points. We moved the ball pretty well offensively yesterday.”
McVay praised Atwell’s professionalism, noting, “I love Tutu. I think a lot of stuff is made of just trying to maximize guys and there’s only one football. I appreciate the heck out of the way that he’s approached it. I have been pleased with some of the different things that we were able to do yesterday offensively and we’ll keep growing from it and I want to try to be able to figure out a way to get him involved.”
While these words show respect, they do little to indicate an immediate plan to increase Atwell’s targets, particularly with star receivers Davante Adams and Puka Nacua consistently producing.
Tutu Atwell’s On-Field Usage
Atwell is averaging roughly 40% of offensive snaps, often being out-snapped by second-year receiver Jordan Whittington, who has quickly assumed the WR3 role. In the first three games, Atwell’s opportunities have been limited primarily to short passes—two of three targets came within nine yards of the line of scrimmage, with only one target between 10 and 19 yards resulting in an interception. He has yet to be targeted deep, a route where he has historically excelled.
Professionalism Amid Uncertainty
Despite limited involvement, Atwell’s commitment remains evident. McVay acknowledged, “Tutu did what he could control within the framework of what was asked of him yesterday. I really have been appreciative of how he’s handled it.”
Atwell’s role may be situational, designed to provide bursts of speed in key moments rather than a high-volume presence. With the WR3 spot open following departures of Cooper Kupp and Demarcus Robinson, expectations for Atwell have been high—but for now, his production remains modest, and his utilization shows the Rams’ cautious approach.
As the season unfolds, the question remains whether Atwell will see a larger share of snaps or remain a specialized option in McVay’s offense. For now, he continues to handle his role with professionalism, waiting for the opportunity to translate potential into consistent production.
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