Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay has not committed to Aaron Donald's return for Monday night's game against the Giants, a decision that carries heightened significance following the loss of defensive end Myles Garrett to knee surgery.
Garrett was placed on injured reserve and is expected to miss at least four games. McVay declined to provide a definitive timeline for Garrett's return as well.
The Rams' pass rush has been a focal point after a disappointing 27-7 loss to the San Francisco 49ers. In that game, Garrett recorded no tackles, sacks, or quarterback hits. The team's defensive front generated no sacks and only nine pressures across 36 opposing dropbacks, contributing to their current ranking of 26th in quarterback pressures.
The absence of both Garrett and potentially Donald exposes a vulnerability in the Rams' defense, which was designed to overwhelm opposing offensive lines. Without consistent pressure, opponents can focus their blocking schemes on remaining players like Byron Young and Kobie Turner, leaving fewer one-on-one matchups for the rest of the defensive line.
Donald, who has not played since January 2024, was held out of the Rams' season opener in Australia as part of a cautious ramp-up process. While Garrett's injury increases the urgency to get Donald back on the field, McVay indicated that Donald's readiness is still being evaluated.
Even a diminished version of Donald could significantly impact the game by collapsing the pocket and disrupting the quarterback's rhythm. His presence can also create opportunities for teammates by drawing double teams, allowing others to engage in isolated matchups.
The Rams' defensive line is set to face a New York Giants offensive line that allowed only 11 pressures in their Week 1 game against the Dallas Cowboys. The team's decision on Donald's return, and how quickly he can be integrated, may prove critical for the Rams in the coming weeks.