Myles Garrett just straight up skipped the Los Angeles Rams’ first practice of the week, and yeah, that’s not exactly the kind of news you want rolling into Week 1. This isn’t some fresh tweak, either. We’re talking about a knee injury that’s been nagging the reigning Defensive Player of the Year all through camp, causing him to miss various chunks of the preseason with swelling. It’s a persistent headache for the Rams, no doubt, especially when you consider what else is going down on that defensive line.
The Big Hole in the Rams’ D-Line
Look, the 49ers are heading into their season opener against the Rams, and for once, the injury drama isn’t all focused on them. Garrett was back practicing on Sunday and is expected to play, but his full absence from Tuesday’s session is definitely notable. Why? Because the Rams are already without Aaron Donald, who isn’t even making the trip to Australia. So, if Garrett is hobbled, even a little bit, that’s a massive blow to their defensive front. We’re talking about the dude who set the NFL single-season record with an insane 23.0 sacks. Even a limited Garrett is dangerous, but any scaling back of what he can do at full strength would make life significantly easier for the opposing offense. It’s a scary thought for Rams fans, having your two biggest defensive weapons potentially sidelined or compromised right out of the gate.
A Much-Needed Break for the 49ers O-Line
Now, let’s be real, the 49ers aren’t exactly spotless themselves, with nine players listed as limited and one out on their own practice report. But the potential for a hobbled Garrett feels like a major break for a 49ers offensive line that’s still ironing out some wrinkles early on. Garrett would typically be lining up against Trent Williams, but the 49ers have some inexperience at left guard. That’s a huge problem if Garrett is at 100%, because it leaves the middle of their O-line vulnerable to the stunts and games he’s so ridiculously effective at. If the Rams have to dial back even a small amount of Garrett’s usual devastating impact, that could be the difference-maker for a questionable 49ers offensive front trying to find its rhythm in a critical early-season matchup. This Rams D-line could be facing a real nightmare scenario.
This Week 1 showdown is going to be electric. All eyes will be on Garrett’s knee and how much he’s able to contribute. What kind of player shows up for the Rams? A healthy DPOY, or a guy clearly hampered by a nagging injury? That’s the question that could dictate the entire game and set the tone for the Rams’ early season form. You know everyone is watching to see how this plays out.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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