Story perspectives

Rams Open 2026 Season vs 49ers in Melbourne

9/7/2026

Summary

Rams Downunder

The Los Angeles Rams will open the 2026 NFL season against the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Australia.
The game starts Thursday, Sep. 10 at 5:35 p.m. PST (10:35 a.m. local) at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Rams coach Sean McVay said WR Puka Nacua expects to play despite psoas soreness and possible discipline.
This is the NFL’s first regular-season game in Australia and the teams’ 155th overall meeting.

Summary

Rams Reinforce Line

The Rams signed Myles Garrett, Trent McDuffie and un-retired Aaron Donald to strengthen their line.
Dallas hired Christian Parker as defensive coordinator and reshaped 17 of its 26 defensive players.
Garrett entered training camp with knee swelling and lower-body soreness, missing several practices.
Cowboys’ defensive rotation now includes Rashan Gary, Von Miller, James Houston and Quinnen Williams.
Analysts say Dallas’ depth could offset injuries better than Los Angeles’ star-heavy defense.

History

Historical Context

After the NFL’s first regular-season game abroad—a 2005 Mexico City matchup that drew 103,467 fans—the league built an International Series in London from 2007 and expanded marketing rights through the HMA program. In February 2025 the NFL announced the Rams would host the 49ers at Melbourne’s Cricket Ground for the 2026 season, extending that overseas legacy.

1 of 3

Rams Downunder

The Los Angeles Rams will open the 2026 NFL season against the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Australia.
The game starts Thursday, Sep. 10 at 5:35 p.m. PST (10:35 a.m. local) at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Rams coach Sean McVay said WR Puka Nacua expects to play despite psoas soreness and possible discipline.
This is the NFL’s first regular-season game in Australia and the teams’ 155th overall meeting.

1 / 3