Tutu Atwell, Rams Agree to $10M Contract amid Cooper Kupp Trade Rumors

As the Los Angeles Rams continue to explore trade opportunities involving Cooper Kupp, they are bringing back veteran wide receiver Tutu Atwell.

Per ESPN's Adam Schefter, Atwell has agreed to a one-year deal worth $10 million fully guaranteed to stay in Los Angeles.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport added Atwell's fully guaranteed money will be paid out via a $5 million signing bonus and a $5 million base salary.

Much of the focus on the Rams receivers since the end of the season has been on Kupp. The 31-year-old, who was on the trade block during the season, announced on social media in February that the team informed him they were seeking to deal him.

Even though nothing has happened at this point, Rams general manager Les Snead told reporters on Wednesday the "least likely" scenario would have Kupp on their roster in 2025.

One of the problems in trying to trade Kupp is an acquiring team would likely have to adjust his contract. He is set to count $29.8 million against the cap in 2025 and $27.3 million in 2026.

This is among the key reasons why there's speculation the Rams could end up having to release Kupp. They would save $7.5 million against the cap as a pre-June 1 cut. That number would go up to $15 million if they used the post-June 1 designation.

The Rams are also facing the possibility of losing Demarcus Robinson in free agency.

Retaining Atwell gives head coach Sean McVay some stability at receiver behind Puka Nacua. The 25-year-old knows the offensive system, having played in it since being a second-round draft pick in 2021.

Atwell is coming off the most productive season of his career in 2024. He finished third on the team in receptions (42) and receiving yards (562).

The Rams won the NFC West last season for the first time since 2021. They defeated the Minnesota Vikings in the wild card round before losing to the eventual Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles in the divisional round.