Sep 9, 2024; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan on the sideline during the second quarter against the New York Jets at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images
49ers Catch Massive Break After Rams Rule Out One Of Their Best Players For Season Opener 1
The San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams kick off the 2026 NFL season in Australia on Thursday. The NFC West divisional matchup has massive early season implications as both teams are looking to not only make the playoffs, but make a run to the Super Bowl.
However, it would appear the 49ers caught a break after the Rams were forced to rule out one of their best players. Here are the details.
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San Francisco 49ers vs. Los Angeles RamsSan Francisco 49ers vs. Los Angeles Rams
Oct 30, 2022; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay meets with San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan following the game at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
49ers Catch Huge Break After Rams Rule Out 3x Defensive Player Of The Year
A comeback by Aaron Donald won’t come in week one after Donald did not accompany the Los Angeles Rams to Australia, head coach Sean McVay said Tuesday. As a result, the star defensive tackle is ineligible to play against the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday.
Orange County Register reporter Benjamin Royer reported McVay’s explanation.
“I think he’ll be ready to go sooner rather than later, but we’re making a decision that we think is best for him and for our team,” McVay said. “… Being two years off retirement, he’s attacked this the right way, but it would have been a really quick turnaround.”
Dec 3, 2023; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald (99) enters the field before the game against the Cleveland Browns at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY SportsDec 3, 2023; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald (99) enters the field before the game against the Cleveland Browns at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 3, 2023; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald (99) enters the field before the game against the Cleveland Browns at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
In lieu of rushing him back for a pivotal NFC West game, the Rams are giving Donald plenty of time to get back into playing shape.
When asked if he was planning to join the team in Australia, Donald deflected. He stressed he’s taking his return one day at a time, but said he’s encouraged by what he’s seen so far.
“It’s been good,” Donald said. “It’s better than what I thought it would be, honestly. Things have been clicking a little bit faster. Feeling good, knocking the rust off.”
With extra time to prepare, Donald could be able to return to the NFL on Monday, Sept. 21 against the New York Giants.