Rams Dolphins Player Swap
Rams Trade Running Back Jarquez Hunter to Dolphins for Receiver Tutu Atwell
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Key Points
1
Atwell accumulated 105 receptions for 1,535 yards and five touchdowns over five seasons with the Rams, underscoring the veteran production the team is hoping to leverage again in LA.
2
Hunter showed preseason potential for the Rams, rushing 12 times for 68 yards and a touchdown against the Saints, and adding 9 carries for 35 yards in Week 1, contributing to the depth-chart conversation that preceded the trade.
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The Dolphins reportedly traded for Atwell amid a described barren wide-receiver room, aiming to add depth and more pass-game options as they approach roster-cut decisions.
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The trade context includes McVay publicly indicating that he trusted running back Ronnie Rivers behind Kyren Hudson and Blake Corum, suggesting Hunter’s role in LA may have been at risk and contributing to the swap.
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Atwell’s return to the Rams reunites the organization with a familiar slot option and adds historical context to the roster, given he was a second-round pick in 2021 and helped the Rams win the Super Bowl that season.
The Los Angeles Rams and Miami Dolphins swapped depth pieces on Thursday, with the Rams trading running back Jarquez Hunter to Miami in exchange for wide receiver Tutu Atwell. Sports Illustrated reported the trade reunites Atwell with Los Angeles, where he spent five seasons and won a Super Bowl in 2021. The move gives the Rams a familiar slot option at receiver while clearing depth-chart logjam at running back.
Atwell Returns to a Familiar Home
Atwell was a second-round pick by the Rams in 2021 and immediately contributed to their Super Bowl championship run. Over five seasons in Los Angeles, he accumulated 105 receptions for 1,535 yards and five touchdowns, establishing himself as a reliable slot receiver. Fox Sports notes that Atwell had signed a one-year deal with Miami this offseason but saw limited usage in the pass game while contributing mainly on special teams.
The Rams needed receiver depth behind Davante Adams and Puka Nacua heading into the season. Atwell's return solves that puzzle by reinstating him as the WR3 option. His familiarity with the Rams' system and proven track record make him an immediate contributor in the slot.
Hunter's Path Blocked in Los Angeles Backfield
Hunter impressed during the preseason for the Rams, rushing 12 times for 68 yards and a touchdown against the Saints. In Week 1, he added nine carries for 35 yards, showing promise for a young back. However, head coach Sean McVay publicly indicated trust in Kyren Hudson and Blake Corum ahead of Hunter, clouding the second-year runner's role.
The depth-chart logjam at running back became untenable for Los Angeles. Trading Hunter to Miami clears cap space and roster flexibility while the Dolphins gain an additional option in their crowded backfield. Local 10 reports the move addressed immediate depth concerns for both teams as rosters took shape.
Miami Addresses Thin Wide Receiver Room
The Dolphins entered the offseason with a notably thin passing attack beyond their established starters. Bradenton Herald notes the team needed receiver depth to complement their offensive scheme. Atwell, despite limited snaps in Miami, provided another option as the Dolphins approached roster-cut deadlines.
For Miami, the trade swaps Hunter for a veteran receiver with proven NFL production. This move adds depth in the pass game while freeing the Dolphins from deciding whether to keep Atwell on the roster heading into the regular season. Both teams benefit from clearing roster space and acquiring the pieces they need.
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