Aaron Donald does not travel with the Los Angeles Rams to Melbourne for the season opener against the San Francisco 49ers and is ruled out for Week 1, according to multiple reports. The move prevents the 49ers from facing the defensive tackle on Thursday at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Donald returned to the NFL after announcing a comeback from retirement in the offseason, but outlets say the Rams are still completing his ramp-up process. One report states his debut is now expected to shift to a later date, with another citing timing related to the team’s preparations. The coverage is consistent on his absence from Australia and the season opener, while differing only on how the Rams describe the reason and the target for his eventual return.