The Los Angeles Rams are currently evaluating options to fill their punt returner position for the remainder of the season. Head coach Sean McVay indicated that Kyren Williams and Tutu Atwell are the primary candidates for the role, which the team is prioritizing for its ball security rather than explosive return potential.
Focus on Ball Security
The team has already parted ways with two previous punt returners this season, Xavier Smith and Alex Bachman. According to McVay, the current objective for whoever secures the job is strictly to avoid muffs or fumbles. The coaching staff is not looking for long-distance returns, but rather a reliable player who can signal for a fair catch consistently.
Williams has recorded six career punt returns in the NFL with an average of 6.6 yards per return, in addition to 14 returns during his final season at Notre Dame. Meanwhile, Atwell registered 10 punt returns in 2021 and four during his collegiate career. Both players are viewed by the staff as capable of handling the fair catch duties required to stabilize the special teams unit.
Additional Roster Options
The Rams are also considering other personnel as they finalize their decision. Ronnie Rivers is expected to be activated this week and brings more extensive collegiate returning experience to the competition. Additionally, the team has the option to utilize players from the practice squad, including Brennan Presley and Bachman, who was re-signed shortly after his initial release.
Regardless of which player is ultimately selected, the assignment remains unchanged. The Rams are seeking a player who can reliably secure the ball and minimize risk, with the primary expectation being that they will signal for a fair catch on every punt attempt.
