Aaron Donald's Rams return delayed past 49ers opener

A 16-hour flight helped shape Los Angeles' call.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Sep 81 min read

This is big news. The 49ers had anticipated Donald would play. Surely some relief in their camp as they wake up here i Via @LindseyThiry on X

What happened: Los Angeles will keep Aaron Donald home and inactive for Thursday night's opener in Australia. San Francisco had prepared for Donald to play, with Lindsey Thiry describing relief inside the 49ers' camp.

Why it matters: Donald rejoined the Rams in August after two seasons out of football, extending the wait for his first game action since January 2024. San Francisco avoids the three-time Defensive Player of the Year while Los Angeles continues his conditioning ramp-up.

By the numbers: Donald is 35 and owns three Defensive Player of the Year awards, eight first-team All-Pro selections and 10 Pro Bowl nods.

What to watch: The Rams have 11 days before their Week 2 game on Sept. 21, creating a longer runway for Donald's preparation.

Sources

@LindseyThiry 2026-09-08T23:23:33.760962+00:00

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