Sean McVay commits to getting Rams' Swiss Army Knife more involved

After returning from a concussion in the Los Angeles Rams' Thursday night matchup with the New Orleans Saints, Tutu Atwell didn't set the NFL world on fire. That is to be expected.  Atwell barely played against the Saints, logging six percent of the offense's total snaps. But, Rams head coach Sean McVay doesn't want anyone to […]

Add as preferred source on Google
Dec 21, 2023; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay watches game action against the New Orleans Saints during the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Feature image via Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

After returning from a concussion in the Los Angeles Rams' Thursday night matchup with the New Orleans Saints, Tutu Atwell didn't set the NFL world on fire. 

That is to be expected. 

Atwell barely played against the Saints, logging six percent of the offense's total snaps. But, Rams head coach Sean McVay doesn't want anyone to get the wrong idea — he still plans on finding ways for Atwell to contribute despite the rise of Demarcus Robinson. 

"He does bring a unique skill set, something that has been beneficial to our team this year and so continuing to find ways of maximizing all of our guys is something that is my job and our job as coaches," McVay said. 

"[Tutu] does have the ability to play in a bunch of different spots in our offense is something that we’ll for sure have to figure out. And that’s something that I’m committed to for him and our team because I think it’ll make us better.”

Atwell's strong start

Oct 22, 2023; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Tutu Atwell (5) celebrates his touchdown scored against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 22, 2023; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Tutu Atwell (5) celebrates his touchdown scored against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first half at SoFi Stadium. Image via Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Atwell was a viable No.3 receiver on the Rams to start the season. Then, things changed with a concussion. 

But that doesn't negate his value to Matthew Stafford and the Rams' offense. 

He is a do-everything style of player. He has the speed to cause problems for opposing defensive backs and can be a matchup nightmare on his best days. 

Through 13 games, Atwell has 475 yards and 37 catches. He has already surpassed his 2022 and 2021 totals. 

He is also showing dexterity and comfort running the ball here and there. He has four carries for 35 yards. McVay doesn't intend to have Atwell waste away on the roster. 

After returning Thursday, the Rams now have an opportunity to configure a strategy that can allow Robinson and Atwell to thrive. It doesn't have to be one or the other in McVay's offense.