Rams reveal status of Aaron Donald, Myles Garrett for Week 1 vs. 49ers in Australia

The Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers are set to play a regular-season game in Melbourne, Australia this week. The matchup features the league's top defensive duo, Myles Garrett and Aaron Donald, who are both vital to their respective teams' chances of winning the Super Bowl.

Myles Garrett

Garrett dealt with swelling in his left knee throughout most of training camp and preseason. However, he appeared to be making progress as he practiced on Sunday in preparation for the game. Despite his improved condition, Sean McVay, the Rams' head coach, has indicated that Garrett will be ready to play in the Week 1 game against the 49ers.

However, questions remain about how ready Garrett will be to play, with some speculating that his status might be more about game strategy than genuine concern over his injury. Garrett has been spotted working out in Australia, and he appears to be in good shape, based on videos of him throwing punches with a rugby coach. An official update on his status is expected no earlier than Wednesday.

Aaron Donald

The return of former Hall of Fame defensive lineman Aaron Donald has been a significant story this offseason, with Donald opting out of Hall of Fame eligibility to return to the Rams. After passing his physicals, Donald seems to be in excellent shape and ready to go. However, the team announced on Tuesday that Donald will not travel to Australia for the opener against the 49ers and will be inactive for the game.

The Rams made this decision to give Donald additional time to acclimate to an intensive NFL training schedule, which is understandable given his age and experience. Additionally, the pressure of thrusting a retired player onto the field with limited preparation likely contributed to this choice. The decision to keep Donald inactive could potentially be a clue about the team's plans in regards to Garrett.

While the Rams could field the game without either of their defensive stars, it seems likely that Donald's absence suggests Garrett will be active. As the week progresses, we will have to wait and see if this assumption holds true.