Myles Garrett Opens Rams Practice Window as Return Nears

Garrett is set to practice this week after sitting out seven contests because of a knee problem. Los Angeles head coach Sean McVay noted that the team would assess his progress day by day and avoid setting expectations for when he might return to the lineup. The practice window gives Los Angeles up to 21 days to evaluate him before deciding whether to activate him from injured reserve.

Garrett has not played since the Rams’ season opener against San Francisco in Melbourne, Australia. He had arthroscopic knee surgery in September. The Rams are 4-4 and have won their past two games, including Sunday’s 24-9 victory over the Chargers.

Los Angeles’ defense has improved in recent weeks despite his absence. It has allowed just two touchdowns over its past three games and ranks fifth in the league in yards allowed per game, at 301. The team’s pass rush, however, has produced 12 sacks, placing it 27th in the NFL. Byron Young leads the Rams with 4½ sacks.

Garrett, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, has 125½ career sacks. His return could also bring him onto the field with Aaron Donald, who has come back from retirement and played in six games this season. The Rams are also considering opening a practice window for tight end Terrance Ferguson, sidelined by an ankle injury.

Los Angeles travels to Washington on Sunday, then visits Arizona before its bye week. McVay has not said whether Garrett will be ready for either game.