Is it finally Tutu Time?
Tutu Atwell has never had a clearer path to playing time than he does this year. Puka Nacua and Davante Adams are the top two receivers on the depth chart – that’s undebatable – but Atwell is currently penciled in as the No. 3 wideout following Cooper Kupp and Demarcus Robinson’s departures.
In an offense that has three receivers on the field more than 90% of the time, that’s great news for the former second-round pick. Might it finally be time for Atwell to break out and have the season fans have been waiting for?
Sean McVay certainly sounds confident in Atwell’s chances of emerging in 2025, mentioning him as a player who stood out in OTAs and minicamp this spring. He believes Atwell will “take the next steps” this season. Here’s what McVay said about Atwell and other offensive players who caught his attention this offseason.
“Obviously, Davante was a real bright spot. Puka was (too),” McVay said in an interview with J.B. Long. “I think Tutu Atwell’s ready to really ascend, take the next steps. Matthew was outstanding. Those are kind of the normal cast of characters. It’s really great to get Coleman Shelton back. His command, his ability to elevate and uplift those around him. I think that’s been really special.”
Atwell’s numbers have improved in each of the last three years, going from zero catches as a rookie in 2021 to hauling in a career-high 42 passes for 562 yards last season. He didn’t score a touchdown in 2024 but he did set career marks in catches, receiving yards, first downs and yards from scrimmage.
That was all despite playing just 39% of the offensive snaps, less than his snap share in both 2022 and 2023. If he becomes a full-time player this season and has the efficiency that he had last year, he could be poised for 750-plus yards in an offense loaded with playmakers.