Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay says he expects the entire roster, including star defensive tackle Aaron Donald, to travel to Australia for the NFL's first-ever game there in Week 1 against the San Francisco 49ers. Donald's participation had been uncertain since he came out of retirement for the 2026 season, having missed the usual pre-season training, but his inclusion on the flight raises the possibility he could feature immediately for a Rams defence bolstered by the arrival of reigning Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett.

McVay stressed the team is taking a "one day at a time" approach with Donald, an eight-time All-Pro, so his actual playing status remains uncertain despite making the trip. The Rams will travel separately from the 49ers, departing on Wednesday and arriving the day before kickoff in Melbourne. McVay also gave a positive update on wide receiver Puka Nacua's recovery from a psoas injury, though Nacua still faces an NFL personal conduct policy review over a lawsuit alleging an antisemitic remark and biting incident, which his lawyer denies; he has not been placed on the exempt list, so he is expected to be available for Week 1. The 49ers, meanwhile, will have tight end George Kittle and defensive end Nick Bosa, both returning from season-ending injuries, on their flight to Melbourne.