Image Source: ESPN
Myles Garrett is headed to injured reserve after the Los Angeles Rams defensive star agreed to undergo arthroscopic knee surgery, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter and NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. The reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year is expected to miss at least four games.
Garrett could become eligible to return for the Rams’ Week 6 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals. However, the timing of his recovery will depend on how his knee responds to the procedure and rehabilitation process.
Breaking Update: Myles Garrett Set for Knee Surgery
The injury news arrives just days after the Rams opened their season with a loss to the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Australia. Garrett played in that game but acknowledged afterward that his knee was not fully healthy.
“I’ve got to be better,” Garrett said Friday. “I’ve got to find a way to recover and get back to the player I know I can be and I’ve shown that I’ve been before.”
Garrett also admitted that he was focused on managing his health during the game rather than playing at his usual level. He described his performance against San Francisco as the worst version of himself that he had put on the field.
Rams Defensive Star Was Limited Before the Opener
The knee issue had already affected Garrett during training camp. He missed most of camp because of swelling, an issue Rams coach Sean McVay had previously discussed with reporters.
After the season opener, Garrett declined to identify which knee was injured. He had been seen wearing a sleeve on his left leg during multiple practices, adding to concerns about his availability and physical condition.
Despite the discomfort, Garrett suited up for the Rams’ first game. He finished without a tackle, marking the first time he had failed to record a tackle since Week 11 of the 2024 season. According to ESPN Research, it was only the fourth tackleless game of his career.
How Garrett’s Absence Changes the Rams’ Defense
The Rams made a major commitment to Garrett during the offseason, acquiring the elite pass rusher from the Cleveland Browns. Los Angeles sent two-time Pro Bowl defensive end Jared Verse and three draft picks to Cleveland, including a first-round selection in 2027.
Garrett set the NFL’s single-season sack record with 23 sacks last season, making his absence a significant blow to a Rams defense built around pressure and disruption. His ability to collapse the pocket, force hurried throws and create turnovers has made him one of the league’s most important defensive players.
- Garrett will undergo arthroscopic knee surgery.
- He will be placed on injured reserve.
- He is expected to miss at least four games.
- His earliest possible return is Week 6 against Arizona.
- The Rams acquired him from Cleveland during the offseason.
Without Garrett, Los Angeles will need other members of its front seven to take on larger roles. The team may rely on increased pressure from its edge rushers, creative defensive schemes and stronger contributions from its interior linemen.
Rams Face Early Defensive Challenge
The timing creates an immediate challenge for Los Angeles. The Rams invested heavily in Garrett expecting him to anchor the pass rush throughout the season, but the knee problem has already limited his preparation and now threatens to sideline him during a crucial portion of the schedule.
Garrett’s potential return against Arizona would give the Rams a target date, but it should not be viewed as a guarantee. The team will likely prioritize his long-term health rather than rush him back before he is ready.
For now, the Rams must move forward without their biggest defensive addition. Garrett’s recovery, surgery outcome and progress during rehabilitation will be closely watched as Los Angeles attempts to stabilize its defense in the opening weeks of the season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What surgery will Myles Garrett have?
Myles Garrett is expected to undergo arthroscopic surgery on his knee, according to reports cited by ESPN and NFL Network.
How many games will Myles Garrett miss?
Garrett is expected to miss at least four games while recovering and will be placed on injured reserve.
When could Garrett return?
He is eligible to return for the Rams’ Week 6 game against the Arizona Cardinals, although his actual availability will depend on his recovery.
When did the Rams acquire Garrett?
The Rams acquired Garrett from the Cleveland Browns during the offseason in a blockbuster trade involving Jared Verse and three draft picks.
Why is Garrett’s injury significant?
Garrett is the reigning Defensive Player of the Year and set the NFL single-season sack record with 23 sacks last season. His absence removes a major threat from the Rams’ pass rush.
