Los Angeles Rams star Myles Garrett described his two-month absence from the field as "torture," revealing the emotional difficulty of watching his team struggle while sidelined with a knee injury that ultimately required surgery.
"It was very difficult," Garrett said Friday. "This is what I love to do. I love being around my teammates, being able to help the whole group shine. I want to be there in those moments and be able to share in their success and celebrate their success."
Garrett's return to practice this week paves the way for his expected appearance Sunday against the Washington Commanders, barring any setbacks. His absence began after the season-opening loss to the San Francisco 49ers in Australia, where mechanical issues in his knee worsened.
"There were just some hitches in my gait," Garrett explained. "There were things I was dealing with mechanically that would only continue to evolve, or I guess worsen, as I played more. So it was rough, and I was trying to avoid it. But you kind of learn and you grow."
Despite initially hoping to play through the "soreness," the injury progressed to a point where surgery became necessary. Rams head coach Sean McVay acknowledged the team would reflect on how the injury was managed.
"I think you always want to reflect back on, all right, what would we do differently if things like this come up?" McVay said. "I think our intentions were all in the right place."
Garrett spent his time away studying opponents and engaging with teammates, but he emphasized that nothing could replace the experience of playing. His return is significant not only for his individual performance but also for the potential impact alongside fellow defensive star Aaron Donald.
"It's good to have the pieces back to the puzzle," Donald said. Garrett anticipates their combined presence will create difficult choices for opposing offenses.
"I think the offense is really going to have to pick their poison," Garrett said. "Who's going to be freed up this play? I think either of us are pretty good at winning one-on-one. So we'll have some fun."
The Rams, who have climbed to 4-4 after a 2-4 start, will look to Garrett to bolster a defense that has already overcome significant injuries to other key players.