Atwell offered a deeper target, providing a potential big-play option despite fewer snaps, contributing to the varied Rams pass-game dynamic.

<p>Atwell’s $10 million cap hit and limited Week 1 production raise eyebrows about the Rams’ strategy. With limited targets, the question centers on whether his role can justify the salary and what McVay will do to maximize his fantasy value.</p><p>Fantasy takeaway: Atwell is a high-risk, high-reward hold; if his usage expands, he could deliver spike weeks, but the current path feels fragile without more volume.</p>

Atwell’s role remains a question mark, with the offense balancing pass distribution and not revealing a clear path to a consistent weekly ceiling. The pairing with Xavier Smith showed potential, but returns remain contingent on game plan and health.

Atwell carries Week 1 avoidance risk versus Texans’ Jalen Pitre, who excels in slot coverage. Atwell’s small-sample depth and a 12.2-yard aDot call for downfield attempts limit high-end upside; this is a matchup to avoid for most formats.

Atwell adds speed and outside threat, creating a complementary dynamic with Nakua and Adams. His big-play ability provides a vertical element that can stretch defenses and open more space for the middle of the field.