Miami Dolphins send Tutu Atwell to Rams for RB who just gained 68 yards

Receiver Tutu Atwell 's homecoming in Miami didn't last long.

Atwell, signed by the Miami Dolphins in free agency to serve as a veteran in a receiving room packed with three rookie draft picks, was traded Aug. 27 back to the Los Angeles Rams , who sent the Dolphins running back Jarquez Hunter , a fourth-round pick in 2025 who appeared in only five games, playing only 22 snaps on special teams.

Photos: Miami Dolphins take on New York Giants in preseason game

Hunter is 5-feet-10 and 211 pounds, out of Auburn, where he led the SEC with a 6.4 yards per-carry average in 2024 while rushing for 1,201 yards.

The Rams traded Hunter despite a performance against the New Orleans Saints last week in which he rushed 12 times for 68 yards (5.7 average) and a 12-yard touchdown.

"Obviously, it was an awesome run by Jarquez Hunter to be able to get the last touchdown," coach Sean McVay said.

In Miami, Hunter is likely to get a look on special teams but could provide depth at running back behind De'Von Achane. The Dolphins addressed running back depth twice this week, having also signed Coleman Bennett.

There was a feeling on the part of Rams media that McVay was referring to Hunter this week when he described what he expects of any running back he'll send onto the field.

"Trust," he said. "That's the big thing. I've got to be able to trust that you can play without the ball, protect the quarterback, know where you're going to be in protections. It'll be hard for you to play for us if we don't trust you."

Atwell, originally a second-round pick of the Rams in 2021, had no catches in the preseason for the Dolphins and had little if any impact in training camp. He attended Miami's Northwestern High.

Hal Habib covers the Miami Dolphins for The Palm Beach Post. He can be reached at HHabib@usatodayco.com.

Our editors independently choose our recommendations. Some content is produced with paid support from a third party, however our editorial decisions remain independent. If you buy through our links, the USA TODAY Network may earn a commission. Prices and availability may change.