Los Angeles Rams defensive end Myles Garrett acknowledged that a lingering knee issue significantly impacted his performance in the team's season-opening 27-7 loss to the San Francisco 49ers on Friday, September 11, 2026. Garrett, who failed to record a single tackle or sack, took full responsibility for his subpar outing.
"This was the worst version of myself that I’ve put out there," Garrett stated after the game. "I’ve got to be better. I’ve got to find a way to recover and to get back to the player I know I can be and that I’ve shown I’ve been before."
Garrett admitted that the knee, which required rest during training camp, caused him to play cautiously. "When I was out there, I was a little bit more focused on myself, trying to stay healthy, not what they were doing," he said. "That showed. I wasn’t what I needed to be for me and my team."
The Rams acquired Garrett with the expectation that he would be a dominant force, capable of disrupting opposing offenses and elevating the defense. However, on Thursday night, he rarely affected 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy and did not consistently disrupt the running game.
Despite the unusual circumstances of traveling to Australia for the season opener, Garrett did not blame the team's travel schedule or game plan. He also expressed confidence in the coaching staff and organization's decisions.
"I don’t doubt the decision making of my coach or my organization," Garrett said. "I think they did what was best for us. We didn’t execute on the field when we needed to."
Garrett's admission raises concerns about his readiness and the team's ability to rely on him as a consistent game-wrecker. While the Rams have invested heavily in him, his current health status could complicate their defensive strategy. The team must now determine if Garrett can regain his form through play or if continued participation risks further aggravating his injury.
"Getting healthy. That’s the main thing," Garrett said when asked about his immediate priority. He stressed the importance of resilience and leadership within the team as they move forward from the loss.