Rams Unlikely to Retain Tutu Atwell After Disappointing Tenure

The Rams are expected to move on from the 2021 second-round pick after he failed to make an impact in his first two seasons.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The Los Angeles Rams are likely to part ways with wide receiver Tutu Atwell after the 2021 second-round pick struggled to produce in his first two NFL seasons. Atwell was paid $10 million by the Rams but managed only six catches for 192 yards, leading the team to conclude that he is not a good fit in their offense.

Why it matters

The Rams have generally made excellent wide receiver moves in recent years, drafting standouts like Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua. However, the Atwell pick appears to have been a rare misstep, and the team will need to address the position again with Davante Adams nearing retirement and Nacua set to command a massive contract.

The details

Atwell was drafted by the Rams earlier than expected in 2021, but the team's usage of 12 and 13 personnel packages made him largely irrelevant. Head coach Sean McVay and general manager Les Snead acknowledged that Atwell did not fit into their offensive plans, despite the team's $10 million investment in him.

  • Atwell was drafted by the Rams in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft.
  • Atwell finished the 2022 season with just six catches for 192 yards.

The players

Tutu Atwell

A wide receiver drafted by the Rams in the second round in 2021, who failed to make an impact in his first two NFL seasons.

Sean McVay

The head coach of the Los Angeles Rams.

Les Snead

The general manager of the Los Angeles Rams.

Cooper Kupp

A standout wide receiver drafted by the Rams who has become one of the best in the NFL.

Puka Nacua

A wide receiver drafted by the Rams who is expected to command a massive contract in the near future.

Davante Adams

A star wide receiver who is nearing retirement.

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What they’re saying

“The fact of the matter is that McVay didn't make Atwell irrelevant last season. Atwell is just not a good receiver and that's what made 12 and 13 personnel more relevant.”

— Kenneth Arthur, Author (turfshowtimes.com)

What’s next

The Rams will need to address the wide receiver position in the upcoming draft or free agency, as they look to replace Atwell and prepare for the eventual departure of Davante Adams.

The takeaway

The Rams' decision to move on from Tutu Atwell highlights the challenges even the best front offices can face in evaluating and developing talent, but the team's track record of success at the position suggests they will find a way to reload at wide receiver.