WR Tutu Atwell, Louisville
HEIGHT: 5-8
WEIGHT: 153
HOMETOWN (HIGH SCHOOL): Miami, FL (Northwestern)
247 RATING: .8646
STARS: 3
YEAR: Junior
POSITION RANK: 10
CAREER
Receiving: 93 catches, 1,678 yards (18.0 ypc), 13 touchdowns
2019
Receiving: 69 catches, 1,272 yards (18.4 ypc), 11 touchdowns
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Tutu Atwell Breakdown
Whenever a son inherits his father’s name, there’s additional pressure that comes with it. Former Minnesota Gophers wide receiver Tutu Atwell shares his name, and his son is making his dad proud. A year after breaking Louisville’s single season receiving yards record, Tutu Atwell Jr. is ready for more.
There are reports that he runs a 4.32 40-yard dash, and it’s easy to see on film. Similar to De’Anthony Thomas at Oregon, Louisville will use Atwell in a variety of formations and in various roles. Anything that gets him out in space puts pressure on the defense vertically and horizontally. That also opens up running lanes for the running backs, and takes coverage away from other receivers downfield. His speed warrants extra attention, and it’s speed that can break open a game.
Given his small frame, breaking tackles doesn’t happen often. It also raises concerns about durability and facing press coverage. He’s quick enough to get off the line, but he’s limited to playing from the slot and off the line. Once he’s moving, defenses need to send two guys towards him or hope that he can’t blow past one man easily.
Atwell came to Louisville as a former quarterback, which adds another dimension to the offense along with an arsenal of trick plays. While it might seem that he’s just a gadget in the offense, Atwell’s become a better receiver over time. He has no problem snagging passes that are outside of his frame, and his hands are strong enough to snag any pass that’s near the ground or way above his head.
Just like his dad, Tutu Atwell’s a dangerous receiver capable of torching any defense. His speed is his biggest asset, and he knows how to use it. Adding some size to his small frame will help him as an NFL prospect, and the Cardinals offense will be able to use him in more ways than they already do.
