Los Angeles Rams defensive end Myles Garrett (95) tries to get past San Francisco 49ers offensive tackle Colton McKivitz, left, in the first half of an NFL football game in Melbourne, Australia, on Sept. 11, 2026. (AP Photo/Doug Benc, File)
Los Angeles Rams outside linebacker Myles Garrett, centre, works out during a practice session for an NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers., in Melbourne, Australia, Thursday, Sept. 10, 2026.(AP Photo/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake)
LOS ANGELES (AP) — After spending time during training camp trying to manage Myles Garrett’s knee injury, it was the Los Angeles Rams’ dismal season-opening loss to the San Francisco 49ers that made it evident to everyone that the star defensive end needed surgery.
Garrett did not record a tackle or sack while playing 61.5% of the defensive snaps in the Rams’ 27-7 defeat in Melbourne, Australia. Coach Sean McVay said Monday that conversations with Garrett immediately after the game last Thursday made it clear he couldn’t go on without an operation. The Rams could get some help soon on the defensive line, though it’s not clear yet when Aaron Donald will be ready to play.
“We had been aware of this, thought it (Garrett’s knee) was something he would be able to work through,” McVay said. “Obviously, being out there and playing in a real game, you learn like, ‘Hey, maybe that’s not the case. So let’s change course with that.’”
