49ers just dodged a massive bullet against Rams they were 100% hoping to avoid heading into crucial Week 1 showdown
The 49ers are kicking off the 2026 season with a very important divisional game against the Rams and they just caught a major break when it comes to Aaron Donald’s status.
The San Francisco 49ers are gearing up for their showdown against the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia and they just received some great news in the shape of Aaron Donald’s Week 1 status.
Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter and Ian Rapoport, the 49ers won’t have to face Aaron Donald, as he won’t travel with the Rams. That obviously means he’ll miss the game and the reason why is because he’s still ramping up to get into football shape after sitting out the last two seasons due to his 2023 retirement.
It’s a major win for the 49ers. Sure, NFL players and teams always want to compete against the best and at the highest level, but it’s easy to see why they’ll take this win when considering the magnitude of this game and how it can affect their playoff chances down the line.
49ers offensive line is glad Aaron Donald won’t be lining up for the Rams defense
There’s also the fact the 49ers have major questions on the offensive line outside of stalwart left tackle Trent Williams. The quartet of (from right to left) tackle Colton McKivitz, guard Dominick Puni, center Jake Brendel, and rookie fourth-round guard Carver Willis is an unproven bunch.
The good news about the offensive line worries is Kyle Shanahan is one of the NFL’s best offensive minds and can dial up plays to help mitigate concerns with the front five. Now, that task is even easier without Donald in the fold.
49ers may not have to see a lot of Myles Garrett, either
On top of the Donald news, Myles Garrett has been dealing with knee swelling that kept him out of a good chunk of Rams training camp. He was available for practice both Sunday and Monday, but it remains to be seen just how much he plays on Thursday night.
Garrett on a snap count would certainly double as another win for the 49ers, even if he still stands to wreak havoc at any moment.
Regardless, the 49ers definitely know Aaron Donald isn’t playing for the Rams on Thursday night and his absence can go a long way in helping San Francisco start the season 1-0 with a crucial divisional win over their heated rival.
