The Los Angeles Rams open their 2026 season against the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Australia today. It marks the first international game in NFL history, and it comes with a major storyline attached to Aaron Donald.
Donald ended his two year retirement on August 30, signing a one year deal worth up to $20 million with the Rams. The move reunited him with a defense that now also features Myles Garrett, acquired in an offseason trade.
Advertisement
Fans have waited nearly three years to see Donald back on the field, and today’s opener felt like the natural moment for his return. However, that will not be the case
MORE: 49ers lose top player for the rest of the season
Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Donald will not play in today’s game against the 49ers, according to head coach Sean McVay. Donald only had 11 days to prepare after signing, and the Rams have chosen to manage his workload carefully rather than rush him into a long international trip.
ESPN’s Dan Graziano reported that a Week 2 or Week 3 debut looks more likely than a Week 1 appearance. He added that the Rams are watching Donald’s snap counts closely, since the team already has strong depth at defensive tackle.
Advertisement
That depth includes Garrett, Byron Young, Kobie Turner and veteran Poona Ford. McVay said he trusts that group to step up while Donald continues working toward game readiness.
MORE: Rams have another player to worry about against 49ers
The Rams return home on September 21 to host the New York Giants on Monday Night Football. That game is shaping up as the likely spot for Donald’s regular season debut.
Until then, Rams fans will have to wait a little longer to see their former Defensive Player of the Year back on the field.
— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter —
