Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay announced that star defensive end Myles Garrett will undergo knee surgery following the team’s 27‑7 loss to the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Australia. Garrett played just 61.5% of defensive snaps and recorded no tackles or sacks, prompting the coaching staff to reassess his condition.
Injury assessment and next steps
McVay explained that the team had hoped Garrett could work through his knee issue, but the reality of a live game revealed otherwise. “We had been aware of this, thought it was something he would be able to work through,” McVay said. “Being out there and playing in a real game, you learn like, ‘Hey, maybe that’s not the case.’ So we’re changing course.”
The Rams have placed Garrett on injured reserve, which guarantees a minimum four‑game absence while the surgery and recovery plan are finalized. No specific timeline beyond that minimum was provided.
Impact on the Rams’ defensive line
Garrett missed much of training camp due to swelling in his knee, but the exact nature of the injury was not disclosed. The Rams acquired him in June from the Cleveland Browns in a trade that also sent pass rusher Jared Verse and three draft picks to Cleveland. The move was intended to bolster the defensive front, a strategy that also helped lure veteran Aaron Donald out of retirement.
McVay emphasized that the team’s priority is to ensure players are healthy enough to contribute positively. “The reality is our job is to put our players and our team in positions to have successful outcomes,” he said. “The next right thing for us is to get this thing fixed.”
Donald’s status and upcoming games
Aaron Donald, a three‑time AP Defensive Player of the Year, did not travel with the team to Australia as he continues his comeback after two seasons away from football. McVay said it is too early to determine whether Donald will be ready for the Rams’ home opener against the New York Giants.
“He’s going to continue to work his process, and we’ll see what that looks like,” McVay added.
Garrett’s outlook
Despite the setback, Garrett remained optimistic before the game, describing himself as “ready” and expressing confidence in his ability to perform. He reiterated his season goals of winning the Super Bowl and repeating as AP Defensive Player of the Year.
Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.
