Sean McVay Opens Up on Myles Garrett's Extended Absence From Rams Practice

Nearly three months have passed since the trade that sent Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams, yet he has yet to suit up in a team uniform. Garrett has missed both of the Rams' first two preseason games and has now sat out 12 practices due to knee swelling and soreness. Initial concerns about his absence were not a major worry a few weeks ago; however, as Week 1 approaches, worry is starting to build.

On Tuesday, head coach Sean McVay downplayed the seriousness of the situation, stating that the team is keeping Garrett out of the lineup as a precaution. McVay emphasized that the primary objective is to get Garrett ready to play in the upcoming game against the 49ers in Melbourne, Australia, on September 10. This match-up marks the first-ever NFL game ever played in Australia and features two top-tier NFL teams facing off in the second game of Week 1.

With a star-studded roster including reigning MVP Matthew Stafford, elite receivers Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, and a formidable pass rusher in Kyren Williams, the Rams were already considered strong contenders before Garrett's arrival. Now, the addition of two-time Defensive Player of the Year Garrett and the already strong defense featuring Kobie Turner, Byron Young, and Braden Fiske makes the Rams a formidable force for any team facing them this season — provided they don't bring back franchise icon Aaron Donald.