Rams' Garrett Cleared for Australia Opener; Donald Will Not Travel
The Rams announced that defensive end Myles Garrett will play in Week 1 against the 49ers in Melbourne despite a lingering knee issue. Aaron Donald, who came out of retirement, will not play or travel for the game, with the team citing his need for more preparation time. Garrett practiced Sunday and appears to be moving well.
Garrett's left knee swelling limited his participation throughout training camp and the preseason, but his Sunday practice session and travel to Melbourne suggest the issue has subsided enough for game action. The Rams have not provided a definitive update on his workload, with further clarity expected midweek. Donald, meanwhile, passed physicals and remains in strong condition, yet the team determined he needs additional ramp-up time before facing a full NFL game schedule. The decision also accounts for the strain of a long-haul trip on a player who had been retired, with the Rams prioritizing his long-term readiness over the season opener.
This game could set an early tone for the Rams' Super Bowl ambitions, as the pairing of Garrett and Donald represents a high-risk, high-reward gamble on veteran star power. How the team manages their availability may influence fan expectations and betting markets, while also shaping broader conversations about player readiness and travel demands in international games. The outcomes could affect the Rams' defensive performance in a pivotal divisional matchup, with ripple effects on their season trajectory.