The Los Angeles Rams open their 2026 season towards the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Australia at the moment. It marks the primary worldwide recreation in NFL historical past, and it comes with a significant storyline hooked up to Aaron Donald.
Donald ended his two yr retirement on August 30, signing a one yr deal price as much as $20 million with the Rams. The transfer reunited him with a protection that now additionally options Myles Garrett, acquired in an offseason commerce.
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Followers have waited practically three years to see Donald again on the sector, and at the moment’s opener felt just like the pure second for his return. Nonetheless, that won’t be the case
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Aaron Donald dominated out for 49ers vs Rams
NFL: Los Angeles Rams Aaron Donald
Los Angeles Rams defensive deal with Aaron Donald Credit score: Kirby Lee-Imagn Photos
Donald is not going to play in at the moment’s recreation towards the 49ers, in response to head coach Sean McVay. Donald solely had 11 days to arrange after signing, and the Rams have chosen to handle his workload fastidiously somewhat than rush him into a protracted worldwide journey.
ESPN’s Dan Graziano reported {that a} Week 2 or Week 3 debut seems to be extra seemingly than a Week 1 look. He added that the Rams are watching Donald’s snap counts carefully, because the crew already has sturdy depth at defensive deal with.
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That depth consists of Garrett, Byron Younger, Kobie Turner and veteran Poona Ford. McVay mentioned he trusts that group to step up whereas Donald continues working towards recreation readiness.
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What comes subsequent for Aaron Donald
The Rams return dwelling on September 21 to host the New York Giants on Monday Evening Soccer. That recreation is shaping up because the seemingly spot for Donald’s common season debut.
Till then, Rams followers must wait just a little longer to see their former Defensive Participant of the 12 months again on the sector.
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