The Rams may be on the verge of getting a huge piece of their defense back at just the right moment. Myles Garrett is trending toward activation from Injured Reserve and could be available Sunday when Los Angeles visits the Washington Commanders in Week 9.
Garrett has been working back from knee surgery that sent him to IR after the season opener, and the signs this week have pointed in the right direction. He returned to practice after missing the Rams’ previous games, and the latest update suggests the team is preparing to have him back in uniform for the road matchup.
#Rams star Myles Garrett, working his way back from knee surgery that landed him on Injured Reserve, is on track to be activated ahead of Sunday’s game at the #Commanders, per me and @MikeGarafolo. Garrett has practiced all week and all indications point towards him playing. A big lift.
- Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 6, 2026
Los Angeles opened Garrett’s 21-day practice window this week, giving the team a chance to evaluate where he stands before deciding whether he’s ready to come off IR. Sean McVay said the process would be handled day by day, and Garrett’s progress has backed that approach up. He was listed as a limited participant in Thursday’s practice, which matters because he had not practiced since the season opener.
The final hurdle is the official activation, but everything around the situation is pointing toward a return.
That would be a major boost for a Rams defense that has gone without one of its top playmakers for much of the season. Garrett brings another edge threat and adds real punch to the front against Washington. The Rams made a major investment to bring him in, so getting him back on the field carries obvious weight for a team with big expectations.
Of course, there’s a difference between being cleared to play and being fully back to his usual level after knee surgery and a long absence. The Rams will want to be sure he’s physically ready before throwing him into game action.
Even so, this is about as encouraging as it gets for Los Angeles heading into Week 9. Garrett is trending toward activation, and all indications point to him playing Sunday against the Commanders.
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