The idea of Tutu Atwell being a consistent option at wide receiver for the Los Angeles Rams never seemed to be within the realm of possibility just a season ago. Contrary to what was previously thought, Atwell has had a fantastic start to the 2023 campaign, and Sean McVay has done a stellar job getting him more involved in the offense.
With Atwell being effective through the first four weeks, Matthew Stafford spoke on the progression the former second-round pick has made from last season compared to this season.
Buy Rams Tickets“Well, I don’t even know from last year. I think you saw it towards the end of the year last year,” Stafford said. “I wasn’t really in some of those instances, but with our depth at the receiver position at the end of last year, he was playing a lot more, got a lot more opportunities and made the most of those both playing inside and outside. I think Sean and (OC) Mike (LaFleur) have done a great job of moving around, finding ways to get him access and get him moving and doing what he does best. And then like Puka (Nacua), he’s just made the most of his opportunities when he’s had them.”
After failing to log a single stat as a rookie in 2021, Atwell caught 18 of his 35 targets for 298 yards and a touchdown in 2022. He also added 34 rushing yards and another score on nine rushing attempts a season ago.
Atwell was essentially locked into an exclusively vertical role last season. But with McVay deploying Atwell in a similar manner as the Miami Dolphins use Tyreek Hill on quick motions, the third-year wideout is thriving in the passing game so far this season.
Entering Week 5, Atwell has already registered 22 catches, 270 yards, and a touchdown. Aside from standout rookie receiver, Puka Nacua, Atwell has been the most effective pass catcher for the Rams amid Cooper Kupp’s absence.
Even though it’s a small sample size this season, it’s a positive sign to see Atwell excelling in his new role on the Rams.
