Los Angeles Rams defensive end Myles Garrett returned to practice on Wednesday after missing seven games due to left knee surgery. His availability for Sunday’s game against the Washington Commanders remains undecided as the team evaluates his progress daily.
Rams coach Sean McVay stated Garrett would take approximately half the usual repetitions during practice, with the team assessing his condition before determining when to activate him. Garrett participated in individual pass-rushing drills during the portion of practice open to reporters.
McVay emphasized the team’s cautious approach, noting they had aimed to be "as diligent, as thorough" as possible before allowing Garrett to return. "A lot of it is going to be predicated on his communication and feedback to us," McVay said, adding, "hopefully the expectation is he’s ready to rock this week."
Quarterback Matthew Stafford welcomed Garrett’s return, stating the goal was for him to contribute on Sundays. "Just happy that he’s feeling good enough to be out there," Stafford said, "and feels like he can start to think about contributing to us on Sundays, which is the ultimate goal."
Garrett underwent surgery following the Rams’ season-opening loss to the San Francisco 49ers in Australia. The Rams acquired him from the Cleveland Browns in June, bringing in the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year after he set a single-season record with 23 sacks in 2025.
When Garrett returns to game action, it will mark the first time he and defensive lineman Aaron Donald play together. The two stars have combined for five NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards and 236.5 sacks. Donald came out of a two-year retirement to rejoin the Rams, who opened the season as Super Bowl favorites.
The Rams (4-4) face the Washington Commanders (2-4-1) on Sunday at FedExField in Landover, Md.