Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay indicated that star defensive end Myles Garrett is currently operating at approximately 85% capacity due to lingering knee swelling. This update comes as the team manages his recovery, which also included a prior shoulder injury that caused him to miss four consecutive practices.
McVay initially described Garrett's ailment as general soreness in his "lower half," assuring reporters there was "no reason for concern" and that the team was being cautious with the 30-year-old veteran. Garrett returned to practice on August 5, stating he felt good and attributing some discomfort to his age.
The disclosure of knee swelling provides a more specific detail about Garrett's physical status. While not necessarily indicating a setback, it means his workload will be closely monitored as the Rams intensify their training. The team's priority is ensuring Garrett is fully healthy for the season opener against the San Francisco 49ers and for a potential Super Bowl run, rather than risking him during preseason activities.
Garrett's medical history generally offers reason for optimism regarding his durability. Draft Sharks projects him as a low injury risk for the 2026 season, estimating a 36% chance of injury and an average of 1.3 missed games. The only previous significant knee issue noted in his history is a Grade 1 strain during his final college season at Texas A&M in 2016, which resulted in three missed games. He has otherwise shown remarkable resilience, playing all 17 games in each of the past two seasons and setting an NFL record with 23 sacks in 2025.
The current situation underscores the importance of Garrett's knee health. The Rams' significant investment in their championship aspirations hinges on his availability. While the 85% status suggests he is not fully healthy, the key indicators moving forward will be the subsidence of the swelling and Garrett's ability to participate in repeated practices without interruption.