Los Angeles Rams pass rusher Myles Garrett stated on Friday, September 11, 2026, that a knee injury he has been managing is more significant than previously disclosed. The acknowledgment followed the Rams' 27-7 loss to the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Australia, which marked the NFL's first regular-season game in that country.
The injury was first publicly noted during the preseason when Garrett missed 12 practices due to what the team described as minor knee swelling. At the time, Rams coach Sean McVay stated the goal was to have Garrett ready for the season opener in Australia. Garrett, a two-time Defensive Player of the Year, was acquired by the Rams in an offseason trade with the Cleveland Browns after setting an NFL single-season record with 23 sacks last year.
In his debut for Los Angeles on Thursday, September 10, Garrett recorded zero tackles. Following the defeat, Garrett cited the knee condition as a factor in his performance. The San Francisco 49ers won the game behind three touchdown passes from quarterback Brock Purdy, while the Rams were held to a single touchdown.
For the Rams organization, the situation involves a significant investment of resources used to acquire a player who has now confirmed a lingering physical limitation. The team's medical staff and coaching personnel must now determine if Garrett will require a period of rest or specific medical interventions, which could influence the Rams' win-loss record early in the season. Fans and fantasy sports participants will notice his potential absence or limited mobility in game broadcasts and statistical outputs starting with the next scheduled game.
The broader NFL landscape is also affected by a trend of high-profile injuries early in the 2026 season. As the league expands its international footprint with games like the Melbourne opener, the availability of star players remains a key factor in marketing and competitive balance. The Rams have not yet released a specific timeline for Garrett’s recovery or his status for Week 2, but the team's upcoming injury reports will provide the next formal update on his availability.