Rams' Myles Garrett Reacts to Big Performance and Injury Return

Los Angeles Rams defensive end Myles Garrett made his return to the field after missing the last seven games due to undergoing knee surgery. 

Garrett not only returned, but he put together an impressive performance that led to a big win. The reigning Defensive Player of the Year offered his reactions to being able to suit up after such a long layoff.

The Rams traded for Garrett in early June, which became one of the biggest blockbuster moves in recent NFL history. 

Los Angeles gave up Jared Verse, a 2027 first-round pick, a 2028 second-round pick, and a 2029 third-round pick. 

Despite the excitement surrounding the idea that Garrett would share the field with Aaron Donald, who ended his retirement to suit up for the Rams in 2026, that did not come to pass.

Donald needed an additional week to get back to football activities, so he did not travel with the Rams to play in Australia. Garrett did, but he entered the game with an already-established knee ailment.

The defensive end had dealt with knee soreness and swelling prior to the game, but he practiced in full and played. Rams head coach Sean McVay revealed after the loss that Garrett would need knee surgery to correct the issue.

Garrett then sat from Weeks 2 to 8, rehabbing his leg after anthroscopic knee surgery. 

Now, ahead of Week 9, Garrett was activated to play against the Commanders. He answered big in the game, securing three sacks and one forced fumble. 

Following the win, Garrett spoke about what it meant to take the field again. 

"Felt great to be out there with my teammates again. Felt rusty as hell in the first half. Had a couple of penalties, but I knew we could get it back. Just try to focus on the play that I was in, and not worry about the last one. They supported me, and that's all that matters. We support each other," Garrett said. 

Garrett more than made up for lost time, as he brought in three sacks. Donald also joked that he had some pass rush wins, but it was Garrett who was getting after Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels.

Garrett had a big game, as did wide receiver Puka Nacua. Nacua secured 150 receiving yards and one touchdown, along with two carries for 20 yards.

The Commanders were initially overwhelming the Rams through the second half, but Garrett, along with the rest of the team, banded together. 

Los Angeles would work their way to a 20-13 victory, which is now the team's third win in a row. They currently sit a t 5-4 in the NFC West, and are now in second place.

If the Seattle Seahawks win, they will obtain second place, but the Rams put themselves in a solid place with their Week 9 win.