Los Angeles Rams prepare for season opener without Aaron Donald

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 10, 2026, 5:12 AM

Last updated Sep 10, 2026

Los Angeles Rams prepare for season opener without Aaron Donald
Summary

The Los Angeles Rams are scheduled to face the San Francisco 49ers in their Week 1 matchup without the immediate return of Aaron Donald to the starting lineup. NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport noted that the team intends to take a cautious approach with the veteran, focusing on his availability for the later stages of the season rather than rushing him back for the opener. Donald, who recently ended a two-year retirement, did not travel with the team to Australia and has cited rustiness following his initial practice sessions. Former NFL center Jeff Saturday stated he expects minimal impact from Donald's absence, noting that the team’s priority remains his conditioning for December and January. While a return for the Week 2 Monday night game against the New York Giants is considered possible, the team has not yet finalized a timeline for his return to active play.

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Status Watch
  • Aaron Donald will miss the Rams' Week 1 season opener against the San Francisco 49ers.
  • The team is focusing on conditioning Donald for high-stakes games in December and January.
  • A possible return date for the veteran defensive lineman is set for the Week 2 matchup against the New York Giants.
  • Donald has been out of professional football for two seasons prior to his return.
Latest Updates
  • 5:12 AMYahoo SportsInsider Shares Encouraging Update Amid Aaron Donald ‘Reality’ Check
What they're saying
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The Los Angeles Rams got a key update on Aaron Donald from an insider ahead of their Week 1 matchup against the San Francisco 49ers. The post Insider Shares Encouraging Update Amid Aaron Donald ‘Reality’ Check appeared first on HEAVY.

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