Full Breakdown
Myles Garrett to Undergo Knee Surgery, Placed on Injured Reserve
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
Los Angeles Rams defensive end Myles Garrett, the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year, will undergo arthroscopic surgery on his knee and be placed on injured reserve. The move obliges the Rams to keep Garrett inactive for a minimum of four regular-season games; he will be eligible to return for the Week 6 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals.
Background & Context
Garrett was acquired in a June 2026 trade with the Cleveland Browns that sent defensive end Jared Verse and a 2027 first-round pick to Cleveland. After missing most of training camp because of knee swelling, Garrett debuted in the league’s first international game—a 27–7 loss to the San Francisco 49 ers in Melbourne—recording no tackles in 40 defensive snaps.
Timeline
- July 26, 2026 – Rams practice footage shows Garrett dealing with knee swelling.
- September 11, 2026 – In the season opener, Garrett pressures the 49 ers’ quarterback but registers zero tackles, sacks or QB hits.
- September 13, 2026 – Team sources confirm arthroscopic knee surgery and IR placement, mandating a four-game absence.
Data & Statistics
- Game performance: 0 tackles, 0 sacks, 0 QB hits in 40 of 65 defensive snaps (Week 1).
- Injury status: Knee swelling noted in late August; a sleeve was worn on his left leg during practices.
- IR rules: Minimum four-game sit-out; earliest activation is Week 6 (Arizona Cardinals).
- Upcoming opponents during absence: New York Giants (home), Denver Broncos (away), Philadelphia Eagles (away), Buffalo Bills (home).
- Trade cost: Jared Verse, a 2027 first-round pick, a 2028 second-round pick and a 2029 third-round pick.
Official Statements & Responses
Rams head coach Sean McVay described the knee issue as “swelling” that limited Garrett’s participation in training camp and emphasized a cautious approach to his health. Team officials said the arthroscopic procedure is intended to “clean up” the problem that persisted through camp and the season opener. Sources including NFL insiders Adam Schefter and Ian Rapoport confirmed the surgery and IR placement. Garrett said his performance was “the worst version of myself” and that he must focus on recovery to return to his prior level of play.
Verbatim Quote
- “This was the worst version of myself that I’ve put out there,” — Myles Garrett
Why It Matters / Impact
Garrett’s absence removes the league’s top pass-rusher from a stretch that pits the Rams against four high-powered offenses. Without his edge-rush pressure, the Rams will rely on younger players such as Byron Young, Josaiah Stewart and Desjuan Johnson. The timing of the injury raises questions about the Rams’ Super Bowl aspirations, given the defensive line’s role in preseason projections.