Will Aaron Donald play in Week 1? Why Rams star not making trip to Australia

The Los Angeles Rams kick off the 2026 NFL season against the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Australia on Thursday, but they'll be taking the field without one of their key players.

Fans will have to wait a bit longer to see legendary defensive tackle Aaron Donald make his return after coming out of a two-year retirement. The eight-time Pro Bowler officially re-joined the Rams on a one-year deal on Aug. 30, just before the 53-man roster deadline, after working out with the team throughout training camp and the preseason.

Donald's status was unclear heading into Week 1 and he told reporters he felt good, if not a bit rusty on Monday, but NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and ESPN's Adam Schefter reported the next day that Donald would not be traveling with the team to Australia as he continued his ramp up.

"The goal is to be in it for the long haul, a season that could stretch into February," Rapoport tweeted.

Rams head coach Sean McVay confirmed the reports later on Tuesday during his media availability.

"He won't play in this game," McVay said. "He's doing a great job. I think he'll be ready to go sooner rather than…

Original source: https://www.usatoday.com/sports/