Barring any last-minute setbacks, we will see Myles Garrett and Aaron Donald take the field together as teammates for the first time ever when the Los Angeles Rams take on the Washington Commanders on Sunday. The duo is the first multi-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year Award winners to be paired together, as they look to secure the Rams' first winning record of the season.
The Rams' acquisition of Garrett was the driving force behind Donald's decision to end his two-year retirement and rejoin the team for the 2026 campaign. On Friday, days away from their debut, Garrett spoke about what it will be like to play alongside the NFL legend.
"I think the offenses are really going to have to pick their poison. 'Who's going to be freed up this play?'
I think either of us are pretty good at winning one-on-ones, so we'll have some fun," Garrett said.
He was then asked if it'll be "surreal" to play alongside Donald.
“Absolutely. Going into this season, I never thought I'd have the chance," Garrett replid. "As you all know, he kept us in suspense for quite a while. It was very exciting to hear about that. I'm looking forward to the opportunity to get on the field and actually play some real snaps with him.”
The belief is that Los Angeles will be able to dial up enough pressure without blitzing, so it can commit more resources to the secondary, if need be. On the flip side, if the Rams do blitz, their ability to get the quarterback could be the most effective in the NFL.
Donald ended his retirement right before the start of the season, forcing him to miss the team's opener in Australia. Garrett played but would need surgery for a long-standing knee issue, keeping him out ever since. Donald and the rest of the defensive line has performed remarkably well without the star defender, but if they hope to make a championship push, the team will need Garrett at his best, especially with Jaylen Watson, Kobie Turner and Poona Ford on the shelf.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Myles Garrett: Offenses have to 'pick their poison' with me and Aaron Donald
