After losing to the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC Championship Game, the Los Angeles Rams have several free agents they need to retain, but they will likely let Tutu Atwell walk in free agency. The Rams’ most notable free agent on the list has been buried in the depth chart behind Davante Adams and Puka Nacua. This was Atwell’s second consecutive game where he’s been listed as “inactive” even though he’s healthy, and the reason for that could be due to roster depth and preference. The Rams have Konata Mumpfield and Jordan Whittington waiting in the wings to emerge as consistent playmakers for this offense, but Atwell has never been able to get back to at least a starting WR3 role.
Rams Could Let Underrated Weapon Tutu Atwell “Walk” in Free Agency
Originally selected in the 2021 NFL Draft, there hasn’t been a clear answer on his inactivity. The Rams have too much talent on their hands, but it’s not like Atwell is the worst receiver in the world. Atwell signed a one-year extension to stay in Los Angeles last year, but hasn’t seen much action after suffering a hamstring injury in October. It couldn’t have come at a worse time for the receiver, as the Rams may have believed he’s a risk to stay healthy.
However, Atwell isn’t the most explosive pass-catcher and won’t be a WR1, but he’s still good enough to garner attention on a low-stakes contract elsewhere. The size and speed he could provide, especially after almost eclipsing 500 receiving yards. The future is still bright for Atwell. A team should be interested in him, given his potential and talents, as he could easily turn his career around in the right environment.
Possible Next Teams
Kansas City Chiefs
While the Kansas City Chiefs will sit on the couch with everyone to watch the Super Bowl for the first time in three years, the team needs to do a lot of rebuilding. Patrick Mahomes will be returning from a season-ending injury, which means the Chiefs must set him up for success. Unfortunately, Rashee Rice could be facing a suspension due to new legal trouble, so the Chiefs need to address the receiver position. Tyquan Thornton is a free agent, and that would leave Xavier Worthy and a young talent in Jalen Royals to step up.
The Chiefs should re-sign Thornton to at least a one-year deal while adding Atwell in the mix. Thornton has turned into one of the better WR3 playmakers, and the presence of Atwell could make this offense even sweeter.
Indianapolis Colts
Meanwhile, the Colts could lose either Alec Pierce or be forced to move on from Michael Pittman Jr during the offseason. After having traded Adonai Mitchell to the Jets, this is something the team can’t afford. While the worries can be on extending Daniel Jones and drafting a franchise quarterback in this year’s draft, the Colts could sign Atwell. Indianapolis should be able to re-sign Pierce, which would be a nice receiver to have in the lineup to help Atwell come alive again.
Los Angeles Chargers
After firing Greg Roman ever since the Los Angeles Chargers’ latest wild-card loss, it’s time to rebuild a formidable pass offense for Justin Herbert. Quentin Johnston is likely to be cut during the offseason, while Keenan Allen could retire. If the Chargers want to have a chance to make a long-term impact, they must rebuild the receiver unit. Atwell could find a role in this offense behind Ladd McConkey while Tre Harris and KeAndre Lambert-Smith continue to get better in the new offense.