What happened: Los Angeles is keeping Aaron Donald home to extend his ramp-up, according to Adam Schefter and @RapSheet. Thursday night's game is set for Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Why it matters: The decision removes the Rams' listed starter from the defensive front for the first game of 2026. It also pushes his comeback beyond the NFL's first regular-season game in Australia.
By the numbers: Donald has 111 sacks in 10 Rams seasons, with eight first-team All-Pro selections and 10 Pro Bowl selections.
What to watch: The next checkpoint is whether Donald progresses enough to make his 2026 debut after the Rams return from Australia.