Garrett Returns to Rams Practice

Myles Garrett will return to practice for the Los Angeles Rams on Wednesday, marking the start of a 21-day period where he must be cleared to play or return to injured reserve. Head coach Sean McVay announced the move on Monday after Garrett missed the past seven games following knee surgery.

McVay declined to provide a specific timeline for Garrett's return to game action. The coach stated that the team would take a day-by-day approach to the process. He described the start of the practice clock as a positive development, noting that the team needs to observe how Garrett responds physically.

The Rams acquired Garrett in June by trading edge rusher Jared Verse, a 2027 first-round draft pick, and two additional selections. Garrett is a two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year. His presence on the roster helped convince Aaron Donald to leave retirement and join the team.

Garrett and Donald have not played together in a game. Donald sat out the season opener in Australia. Garrett discovered during that game that a knee injury managed since training camp affected his explosiveness. The Rams and Garrett opted for surgery after that performance, placing Garrett on injured reserve.

During his rehabilitation, Garrett has remained active in the facility. Defensive coordinator Chris Shula noted last month that Garrett led meetings and bonded with the outside linebackers. Shula said Garrett was present and socializing with his new teammates.

McVay indicated there is a good chance the team will also start the practice window for tight end Terrance Ferguson on Wednesday. Ferguson has been on injured reserve since spraining his ankle in Week 3. McVay said the decision depends on how Ferguson is feeling.

Quarterback Matthew Stafford left the locker room after Sunday's win over the Chargers with ice on his right elbow. McVay said he was not aware of a specific issue but acknowledged Stafford has experienced soreness there. McVay suggested Stafford would be better equipped to answer questions about the injury.

Cornerback Jaylin Watson aggravated his right shoulder in the win over the Chargers. He dislocated that shoulder earlier in the season. McVay listed Watson as day-to-day as the Rams, who are 4-4, prepare for a game against the Washington Commanders, who are 2-4-1, this weekend.

Cornerback Trent McDuffie took a hit to the back that forced him out of Sunday's game. He reported to the facility on Monday and felt better than the staff expected. McVay said the team will monitor both Watson and McDuffie as the week progresses.

Tight end Colby Parkinson is recovering from a rib injury that caused him to miss Week 8. Special teams player Grant Stuart injured his hamstring during warmups on Sunday and served as a personal protector on the punt team. The team is monitoring Stuart this week. Running back Dean Connors broke his hand and underwent surgery on Monday. He is a candidate for injured reserve, but the team is reviewing roster implications. Left guard Steve Avila felt a hamstring pull on Sunday, but McVay does not expect it to affect his availability against Washington.