Tutu Atwell returns from concussion protocol, expected to play against Saints

The Los Angeles Rams (7-7) are getting some much-needed offensive help ahead of Thursday night's matchup with the New Orleans Saints. On Monday, Rams head coach Sean McVay gave the all-clear for wide receiver Tutu Atwell. He said that Atwell has cleared concussion protocol, and he is now expected to return to game action Thursday. […]

Ian Kayanja

Dec 18, 2023 10:09 PM EST

Oct 22, 2023; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Tutu Atwell (5) celebrates his touchdown scored against the Pittsburgh Steelers with guard Steve Avila (73) and wide receiver Cooper Kupp (10) during the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports — Feature image via Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

The Los Angeles Rams (7-7) are getting some much-needed offensive help ahead of Thursday night's matchup with the New Orleans Saints.

On Monday, Rams head coach Sean McVay gave the all-clear for wide receiver Tutu Atwell. He said that Atwell has cleared concussion protocol, and he is now expected to return to game action Thursday.

The news comes just in time for the Rams' continued push for the postseason after starting 1-2.

Sean McVay also says WR Tutu Atwell has cleared the concussion protocol and will play Thursday.

DB Tre Tomlinson has a thigh injury but no clarity beyond that as far as his status for Thursday.
— Stu Jackson (@StuJRams) December 18, 2023

How did the Rams and Atwell get here?

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

Atwell sustained a concussion in the Rams' heartbreaking Week 14 loss to the Baltimore Ravens.

The concussion forced him to miss the Week 15 matchup with the Washington Commanders, a game that helped the Rams hold on to a potential playoff spot.

What makes Atwell such an interesting player for the Rams is his speed. He is always a mismatch, regardless of who lines up in front of him.

Atwell was a full participant in Monday's practice — making it more likely that he will play on Thursday.

In 13 games played this season, Atwell has a career-high 37 catches for 476 yards and three touchdowns. He also has four rushes for 35 yards.