The Los Angeles Rams cut Alex Bachman this week, and though they re-signed him to the practice squad, it sounds like his time as the punt returner is over. Sean McVay said during Wednesday's press conference that as the Rams search for a new return specialist, Kyren Williams and Tutu Atwell are both in the mix to handle that job.
They've each returned punts in the past, but neither has had sustained success in that role. It's also surprising that the Rams would risk putting Williams on punt returns, knowing how important he is to the offense. He's returned six punts in his career, returning them for a total of 41 yards. He returned one punt for 8 yards last season.
Atwell returned 10 punts for 54 yards during his rookie season in 2021, as well as five
kickoffs for 87 yards. He has the speed and explosiveness to be a successful punt returner, but he doesn't break many tackles.
Sean McVay said that Tutu Atwell and Kyren Williams are options to return punts.
— Nate Atkins (@NateAtkins_) November 4, 2026
The Rams need a new option after dropping Alex Bachman to the practice squad.
While Williams and Atwell could be candidates to return punts, the Rams also have the option to utilize someone on the practice squad. They tried it with Bachman with minimal success but perhaps someone like Brennan Presley could get an opportunity.
We'll find out who the Rams turn to this Sunday when they face the Commanders on the road.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Kyren Williams, Tutu Atwell are candidates to return punts for Rams
