Los Angeles Rams coach Sean McVay announced Tuesday that veteran defensive lineman Aaron Donald will not travel with the team to Melbourne, Australia, for their Week 1 matchup against the San Francisco 49ers.
Donald, who came out of retirement on August 30, has been undergoing a ramp-up process and has not played in a game since January 2024. McVay stated that the decision was made to prioritize Donald's preparation for the full season rather than an immediate return for the opener.
"He's doing a great job," McVay told reporters. "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. He's as great a competitor as there is, wants to be out there, wants to influence and effect positive change for us. But I think he also understands there's a necessary ramp up."
The Rams are viewing Donald's return and subsequent preparation as a "marathon rather than a sprint." The team aims to avoid exposing the 35-year-old defensive lineman to potential soft-tissue injuries that could linger throughout the season by ensuring he is adequately prepared for the demands of a 16-game season and potential postseason run.
Donald's next opportunity to play is anticipated to be on September 21, when the Rams host the New York Giants on Monday Night Football. This extended timeline gives him an additional 10 days to acclimate and prepare.
The Rams are scheduled to depart Los Angeles International Airport on Tuesday night for the approximately 15-to-16-hour flight to Melbourne. The game against the 49ers is slated to kick off at 8:35 p.m. ET on Thursday in the United States, and at 10:35 a.m. on Friday in Melbourne due to the time difference.