Overview
- The Dolphins traded Atwell back to the Rams in late August in exchange for running back Jarquez Hunter, who was later waived during final roster cutdowns.
- Atwell said he was surprised by the move and that McVay called to welcome him back, and the coach said the transaction was a depth/fit decision not a response to any potential Puka Nacua suspension.
- Atwell returns on a cheaper deal than last season and stressed the playbook is “all muscle memory,” which should let him step into the offense quickly.
- Despite his familiarity with the system, Atwell’s recent production was limited—he played only 187 snaps with 15 targets in 2025 after signing a one-year $10 million deal the prior season.
- The trade gives the Rams a known, low-risk option behind Puka Nacua and Davante Adams and leaves Atwell competing for the No. 3 role and special-teams snaps while wearing a new No. 8 jersey.