The Philadelphia Eagles will not have to account for Aaron Donaldwhen they host the Los Angeles Rams in Week 4.
Los Angeles ruled out Donald because of a back injury after the defensive tackle missed multiple practices. Tight end Terrance Ferguson and cornerback Jaylen Watson were also ruled out, leaving the Rams without three important contributors for Sunday’s game at Lincoln Financial Field.
Donald’s absence removes one of the most disruptive defensive players in NFL history from a matchup against an Eagles offensive line that is still adjusting to changes along the interior. Philadelphia can now devote more attention to Kobie Turner, Braden Fiske and the rest of Los Angeles’ front instead of building much of its protection plan around preventing
Donald from wrecking the pocket.
Aaron Donald is OUT against the Eagles on Sunday.
— Nate Atkins (@NateAtkins_) October 2, 2026
Terrance Ferguson and Jaylen Watson are also out on Sunday.
That should help Jalen Hurts, but it does not guarantee a productive afternoon. The Eagles are coming off a 27-7 loss to the Chicago Bears and need cleaner execution, fewer penalties, and a more consistent commitment to Saquon Barkley. Los Angeles still has enough talent to create problems if Philadelphia falls behind the chains.
Watson’s absence also affects a Rams secondary that will attempt to handle Philadelphia’s receivers without one of its starting cornerbacks. Watson dislocated his shoulder against Denver after recording two tackles, two pass breakups and a tackle for loss. Ferguson sustained a medial ankle sprain in the same game.
The injury news was not entirely negative for Los Angeles. Puka Nacua is expected to return after missing two games with a hip injury that Sean McVay later described as groin soreness. Nacua caught five passes for 74 yards in the season opener and gives Matthew Stafford another premier option alongside Davante Adams.
Donald’s absence gives Philadelphia’s offense a meaningful advantage. Nacua’s anticipated return, however, ensures the Eagles’ defense receives no comparable break.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Aaron Donald ruled out for Rams’ Week 4 matchup against Eagles
