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Rams open 2026 in Melbourne vs 49ers without Donald

9/10/2026

15 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Los Angeles Rams open the 2026 season in Melbourne against the San Francisco 49ers without Aaron Donald.
Aaron Donald signed a one-year deal after retiring on Aug. 30 but remained in the United States.
Coach Sean McVay said the defense prepared all summer to play without Donald.
Quarterback Matthew Stafford will start for the Rams in the international game.
The article predicts a 31-20 Rams win, giving them a 1-0 start.

History

Historical Context

After the NFL staged its first regular-season game abroad on Oct 2 2005 in Mexico City before 103,467 fans, it launched the International Series in London in 2007 and expanded to multiple continents. In February 2025 the league announced a 2026 regular-season matchup in Melbourne, naming the Los Angeles Rams as home team against the San Francisco 49ers. The move continues the league’s long-term global-growth plan.

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Story summary

The Los Angeles Rams open the 2026 season in Melbourne against the San Francisco 49ers without Aaron Donald.
Aaron Donald signed a one-year deal after retiring on Aug. 30 but remained in the United States.
Coach Sean McVay said the defense prepared all summer to play without Donald.
Quarterback Matthew Stafford will start for the Rams in the international game.
The article predicts a 31-20 Rams win, giving them a 1-0 start.

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