Myles Garrett’s highly anticipated Los Angeles Rams debut did not go according to plan, as the star defensive end was held without a tackle during the team’s 27-7 loss to the San Francisco 49ers in Australia.
The disappointing performance came as Garrett began the 10th season of his NFL career and his first campaign with the Rams. Los Angeles acquired the two-time Defensive Player of the Year from the Cleveland Browns during the offseason in a blockbuster deal involving Jared Verse and multiple future draft picks.
Myles Garrett Addresses His Physical Condition
Following the loss, Garrett acknowledged that he was not at his best physically. When asked about his performance, the veteran pass rusher described it bluntly as the “worst version” of himself.
Garrett was then asked about his top priority heading into Week 2. His response was simple: “Get healthy.”
Those comments immediately put the Myles Garrett injury situation under the spotlight. While the available information does not indicate a specific new injury diagnosis, Garrett’s comments suggest that his physical condition played a role in his lackluster opening performance.
Myles Garrett Stats in Rams Debut
The Myles Garrett stats from his first game with Los Angeles were unusually quiet for one of the NFL’s premier defensive players.
Garrett finished the contest without recording a tackle as the Rams struggled to contain San Francisco. The 49ers responded after falling behind 7-3 in the second quarter, scoring 24 consecutive points to secure a convincing victory.
For a player who has consistently been among the league’s most disruptive pass rushers, the zero in the tackle column was a particularly unusual result.
Garrett has built his reputation on his ability to pressure quarterbacks, disrupt running plays and create game-changing moments. His Rams debut, however, offered little indication of that dominant form.
Myles Garrett Trade Creates Huge Expectations
The Myles Garrett trade brought enormous expectations to Los Angeles. The Rams acquired Garrett from Cleveland in exchange for Jared Verse, a 2027 first-round pick, a 2028 second-round pick and a 2029 third-round pick.
The move was designed to give the Rams another elite defensive weapon as they pursue championship ambitions.
Garrett entered the season with an impressive résumé. He had already won Defensive Player of the Year twice, including awards in 2023 and 2025, establishing himself as one of the NFL’s most feared defensive players.
Los Angeles also reunited Garrett with Aaron Donald, who returned from retirement during the offseason. The combination created significant excitement surrounding the Rams’ defense heading into the new season.
Rams Need Garrett at His Best
The Rams’ loss to San Francisco highlighted how much Los Angeles needs its major defensive additions to deliver.
The offense also struggled in the opener. Matthew Stafford completed 15 of 25 passes for 155 yards, throwing one interception. Kyren Williams provided a bright spot with 41 rushing yards and a touchdown on 11 carries, while Puka Nacua caught five passes for 74 yards.
After taking a 7-3 lead, Los Angeles was unable to maintain its momentum as San Francisco scored 24 unanswered points.
For Garrett, the focus now shifts toward recovery and preparation for Week 2. His comments indicate that getting back to full health is his immediate priority.
What’s Next for Myles Garrett?
The Rams return home from Australia before their Week 2 matchup against the New York Giants on September 21 at 8:15 p.m. ET.
That game will provide Garrett with an opportunity to respond to one of the quietest performances of his career. If he can regain his physical form, the Rams will expect their marquee defensive acquisition to become a major factor moving forward.
For now, the biggest storyline surrounding Myles Garrett is his health. His zero-tackle debut was far below expectations, but his comments suggest the veteran knows exactly what needs to improve before the Rams’ next game.
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