Why aren’t the Rams playing $10-million receiver Tutu Atwell?

Before this season, the Rams signed recipient Tutu Atwell contract for a period of one year and worth $10 million.

It seemed like the coach Sean McVay was mandated to include a full 2021 second-round draft pick in the receiving corps, which included Puka Nacua and new arrival Davante Adamsthree-time All-Pro.

But Atwell had just four catches before suffering a hamstring injury that landed him on injured reserve in late October. Rams didn't activate it for Sunday's game, but loss with a score of 31-28 from the Carolina Panthers.

Xavier Smith, who also returns punts, filled the role of speedy receiver and caught three passes for 82 yards, including one for 51 yards.

McVay indicated after the game that the decision not to activate Atwell was a roster management issue, largely influenced by personnel groups and special teams needs that impact the 48-player game-day limit.

Asked Monday if Atwell would play Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals, McVay was noncommittal as he waited to formulate a game plan for the week.

“I love Tutu. I love everything he talks about,” McVay said during a video conference with reporters. “I’d like to find a way to make it work and get him involved, and if it’s a good fit for the team versus the 48ers, there are a lot of factors that go into that.”

McVay said Atwell did “everything he could control” but “certain roles and rhythms were established regarding special teams” and personnel needed from various positions.

“There are a lot of layers to this, some of which he just can't control, and that's unfortunate,” McVay said. “But we want to know how to raise it.”

Rams wide receiver Tutu Atwell gets a high five from coach Sean McVay during training camp in July.

(Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)

Throughout his career, Atwell has consistently stated that he is happy to be patient, enjoys being a part of the Rams and will be ready when needed.

After a rookie season marred by injuries, he caught 18 passes in 2022, 39 in 2023 and 42 in 2024.

He scored the winning goal this season 88 yard touchdown against the Indianapolis Colts. But otherwise, he was mostly a potential threat in an offense that featured quarterback Matthew Stafford, Nacua, Adams, running backs Kyren Williams and Blake Corum, and as many as three tight ends.

Smith, Jordan Whittington and rookie Konata Mumpfield, who play special teams, were also part of the wide receiver rotation.

Atwell said last week that he has spent time treating injured reserve, building strength and helping teammates prepare for games.

“I feel great and ready to get back to it,” he said.

Smith, who began his career with the Rams as an undrafted free agent in 2023, said Atwell was instrumental in his development. He said Atwell welcomed him into the reception area and set a good example.

“So when it’s my turn,” Smith said Monday, “I just want to follow in those same footsteps and do it as well as he did.”