NFL Injury Timeline: Myles Garrett Begins Return-to-Play Process

The Los Angeles Rams defensive unit enters a critical phase of the 2026 regular season with the return of their star pass rusher to the practice field. Myles Garrett, who underwent knee surgery earlier in the season, is scheduled to take the field for team practice this week. This action officially starts a 21-day mandatory waiting period before he can suit up in a game.

Garrett’s path back to the lineup has been disrupted by injury since the preseason. The two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year struggled with knee soreness during training camp, which limited his effectiveness in the season opener against the San Francisco 49ers. During that debut, Garrett played 40 defensive snaps and six special teams snaps but did not record a tackle. The decision to operate on the knee was made with the expectation that he would return to play later in the 2026 campaign.

The recovery schedule initially projected a six-week timeline for Garrett to return to active duty. He is currently tracking slightly behind that original schedule. Head coach Sean McVay addressed the situation on Monday, noting that the team is approaching the process day by day. McVay stated that starting the clock is a real positive and that the coaching staff wants to see how Garrett responds to physical activity. He declined to rule out the linebacker for Sunday’s road game against the Washington Commanders.

The Rams moved quickly in the offseason to secure Garrett’s services. On June 1, the team acquired the 30-year-old from the Cleveland Browns in a multi-player deal. The trade involved sending outside linebacker Jared Verse to Cleveland. Los Angeles also included a 2027 first-round pick, a 2028 second-round selection, and a conditional 2029 third-round pick in the transaction. The move was designed to strengthen a defense that was already considered competitive.

Garrett enters this injury period with a historically productive career behind him. He set the NFL single-season sack record last year with 23 sacks, a performance that earned him the 2025 NFL Defensive Player of the Year award. He is the first player in league history to record at least 12 sacks in six consecutive seasons, a streak spanning from 2020 to 2025. His career total stands at 125.5 sacks, placing him third among active players. He trails only Von Miller, who has 139.5 sacks, and Cameron Jordan, who has 132.

The upcoming week will determine whether Garrett progresses through the 21-day window as planned. The Rams will monitor his response to practice work before making a final decision on his availability for the Washington game. The 21-day rule is a league standard for players returning from major surgery, ensuring they have sufficient time to acclimate to game speed. Garrett’s status will be a focal point for the defense as the team prepares for its next contest.