Is Aaron Donald playing in Week 1 vs. 49ers? Final status for Rams star DE

The Los Angeles Rams will open up their 2026 season against the San Francisco in Australia on Thursday. 

Unfortunately, fans eager to see Rams star defensive end Aaron Donald's return to the field after a brief retirement will have to wait a little longer. 

Aaron Donald ruled out for Week 1 game against 49ers 

Donald, who initially retired from the NFL following the 2023 season, has been officially ruled out of the game against San Francisco as he continues to work his way back into game shape. 

The good news is that the Rams aren't expecting Donald's stint on the sideline to stretch on for long. 

"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," Rams head coach Sean McVay said. "... It will add value when he's ready to go, but being two years off retirement, he's attacked this the right way, but it would have been a really quick turnaround."

The Rams will have to find a way to apply pressure to Niners quarterback Brock Purdy without the three-time Defensive Player of the Year. Luckily, the Rams have another dominant defensive end in Myles Garrett, who will be making his team debut in the game against San Francisco. 

L.A. is scheduled to host the New York Giants on Monday Night Football in Week 2.  

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