As the Los Angeles Rams gear up for their highly anticipated regular-season opener against the San Francisco 49ers in Australia, head coach Sean McVay has confirmed that the entire roster will make the trip. However, the status of defensive tackle Aaron Donald, who recently came out of retirement, remains uncertain.
McVay shared this update on Friday as the team began its preparations for the historic matchup, which will take place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. This game marks a significant milestone as it is the NFL's first regular-season game held in Australia, heightening the excitement for both teams and their fans.
Initially, there was ambiguity surrounding Donald's participation in the game. The 35-year-old defensive powerhouse had only announced his return to the Rams last weekend after stepping away from the game for two and a half years. While Donald's commitment to rejoining the team is clear, McVay indicated that the coaching staff has yet to make a definitive decision on whether he will play in Melbourne.
“I don’t have that sense quite yet,” McVay noted regarding Donald's readiness. He praised Donald's efforts to regain his game shape, stating, “I think the ramp-up process has been really good. He’s so intentional about his rhythm and routine.” McVay emphasized that this week would be crucial for Donald, as the team will evaluate how he feels leading up to the game. If Donald is fit to play, it would be a significant boost for the Rams; if not, McVay expressed confidence in the other players who have been preparing diligently.
In addition to Donald, the Rams are also monitoring the health of Myles Garrett, who is expected to participate despite having missed several training camp sessions due to soreness and a minor knee issue. All-Pro receiver Puka Nacua is also anticipated to play after making strides in his recovery from a core muscle injury sustained three weeks prior. McVay remarked on Nacua's progress, saying, “He’s feeling good. Been hitting some high-speed yards at a really good clip, and when we get back out there, it’ll be fun to have him.”
The Rams are concluding their training week at their facility in Woodland Hills before departing for Australia less than 48 hours before the game. In contrast, the 49ers opted for an earlier arrival, conducting their full week of preparations on-site in Australia.
McVay has faith in the Rams' strategy for international games, a plan they have refined through previous trips to London and Mexico City. He acknowledges the unique challenge posed by the extensive travel for this Week 1 clash, as no NFL team has traveled as far as the Rams and 49ers for a game. “The thinking in its simplest form is, what do we deem the best for our football players, and for them to try to be at their best?” McVay explained, underscoring his trust in the team's approach as they prepare for this landmark event.
Leave a Comment