The Carolina Panthers and Los Angeles Chargers may target former second-round pick receiver, Tutu Atwell who could become available on the trading block. According to one report, the Rams could pursue Atwell who may get more opportunities this season now that Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp will be out for a few weeks. His best career comes from the 2023 campaign where he notched 22 catches while racking up 270 yards and a touchdown on 35 targets through the first four weeks of that year. However, it opens up the door for other wideouts like Tyler Johnson and Jordan Whittington to get more playing time so Atwell is still well below the depth chart despite the Rams losing two receivers.
Even though Atwell showed he was a capable receiver, the team was still looking for a WR3 to accommodate Nacua and Kupp so this might be a sign that he isn’t a part of the team’s plans. Fans shouldn’t hold their breath and expect to see a big output from Atwell so the best thing for them to do is trade him before they need to worry about extending his contract. The Rams would most likely extend Pacua and Kupp over Atwell so it will become problematic to see who they will prioritize. Atwell hasn’t been explosive in terms of yardage but whenever he gets the opportunity, he can make a few plays.
There’s no denying his speed so many teams should keep an eye on him since he could be a useful slot weapon as a WR3. He won’t get a starting role in the league but could get extra playing time elsewhere.
Panthers, Chargers May Target Former Second-Round Pick Tutu Atwell
More Playing Time in Los Angeles
The Chargers have one of the worst collections of receivers in the NFL today. DJ Chark is still on IR and rookie Ladd McConkey is carrying the entire passing attack. Quentin Johnston still hasn’t shown anyone that he could be a reliable wideout in this league so the team may consider trading him. No one should expect journeyman Joshua Palmer to do much of anything so it’s safe to bet on a cheap trade candidate like Atwell.
He could find himself a role alongside McConkey and he could use someone to learn from while he establishes in his first year. Atwell does well in the quick slant so this is something that the Chargers should bring for Justin Herbert in case he’s under pressure. Jim Harbaugh wants the offense to excel in the running game, but Herbert shines when he’s passing. Atwell should get involved in this group to keep pushing the passing game beyond the limit.
Any Help for Carolina
It’s crashing and burning in Carolina so any help for the passing attack would do them justice to help Andy Dalton feel comfortable. After benching Bryce Young, it’s safe to assume the Panthers will have another on-the-shelf season. Dalton could get this team a fighting chance but there’s only so much he could do since he’s getting older. It may be time to get someone like Atwell to play alongside Adam Thielen who may have the same hunger and desire to win football games.
They both share the same abilities so depending on Atwell could be crucial for the team that wants to fight for yards and with his speed, he could get that done.
Other Potential Trade Destinations
Kansas City Chiefs
Kansas City doesn’t have plenty of depth behind Xavier Worthy and Rashee Rice ever since they’re expecting Marquise Brown to be out for the rest of the season. JuJu Smith-Schuster isn’t the same wideout but adding Atwell in the mix could give the receiving depth chart a fresh reset for Patrick Mahomes. Atwell is best when he gets opportunities and may find that playing for the back-to-back Super Bowl champions.
Baltimore Ravens
The receiver position isn’t the biggest need for Baltimore but there’s a lack of pass catchers behind Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman. Lamar Jackson has been heavily dependent on running back Justice Hill to get off those quick passes when the pressure mounts in the pocket. This might be Nelson Agholor’s last year with the Ravens and Atwell should earn a spot in his role to become their new WR3. Atwell is a much fresher version of him and could establish himself as a reliable slot threat to help the wideout depth.
