The Los Angeles Rams are awaiting the outcome of a critical week of practice to determine if veteran defensive tackle Aaron Donald will be ready for the season opener against the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Australia.
Coach Sean McVay confirmed that the plan is for all active roster players to travel to Australia, but emphasized that Donald's participation in the game is contingent on his physical readiness. "This week will be a big week for him in terms of how he feels," McVay stated. "We'll just kind of take it a day at a time and see where he's at."
Donald has spent recent months rebuilding his body and preparing for a potential return after a period away from football. Since rejoining the team, the focus has shifted from conditioning to reacclimating to the speed and physicality of professional play. The Rams' medical and performance staffs will use this week's practices, scheduled for Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday, to evaluate his body's response to increased workload and assess the risk of playing him against the 49ers.
If Donald is cleared to play, his workload may be limited, potentially seeing around 20 to 25 snaps. This approach would allow the Rams to utilize his pass-rushing abilities while continuing to build his stamina for larger roles later in the season. However, this consideration only arises if he passes the initial hurdle of being deemed ready.
The Rams currently hold a roster exemption for Donald, which extends until September 11, the day after the season opener. While he is under contract, he does not count against the 53-man roster. If he plays in Melbourne, the team will need to make a corresponding roster move. McVay has not yet indicated what that move would be. This week will be pivotal in clarifying Donald's status for the international game and the remainder of his potential comeback.