Rams Delay Myles Garrett Return After Knee Surgery

The Los Angeles Rams are expected to keep star edge rusher Myles Garrett sidelined beyond his first eligibility date after a knee procedure, with coach Sean McVay saying the team is unlikely to open Garrett’s return window in Week 6.

Garrett underwent left knee surgery after the Rams’ season-opening loss to the San Francisco 49ers in Australia, according to the Los Angeles Times. He has missed games against the New York Giants, Denver Broncos and Philadelphia Eagles and was set to miss the matchup with the Buffalo Bills.

McVay said the Rams will continue monitoring Garrett’s recovery rather than immediately starting the 21-day practice period required for injured reserve players returning to action.

"It’s kind of week to week in terms of how he feels, but I would say it’s more likely that we do not start his clock next week," said Sean McVay, Rams head coach.

McVay said Garrett has continued meetings and rehabilitation work while the team evaluates his progress. The Rams acquired the 30-year-old defender from the Cleveland Browns in June and expected him to anchor their pass rush.

"Hitting all the benchmarks," said Sean McVay, Rams head coach.

Garrett’s return remains dependent on his ability to handle football activities and drills. McVay said those tests will determine when the defender can return to his usual role.

"That’s when you can really talk about, ‘OK, he’s going to play football for us’ and things of that nature," said Sean McVay, Rams head coach.

Garrett previously described his performance in the season opener after struggling through knee irritation during training camp and preseason workouts.

"The worst version of myself that I put out there," said Myles Garrett.

The Rams have used Josaiah Stewart alongside Byron Young at outside linebacker while Garrett remains unavailable, with rookie Wesley Bailey and Desjuan Johnson also receiving snaps.

McVay said Garrett’s recovery has shown positive signs but the team wants him fully prepared before activation.

"He’s making good progress, but what I will say is, he’s not ready to say whether we’ll open that window or not," said Sean McVay, Rams head coach.

The Rams’ upcoming schedule includes games against the Arizona Cardinals, Raiders, Los Angeles Chargers and Washington before a potential Garrett return window later in the season.