Los Angeles Rams outside linebacker Myles Garrett remained limited during Thursday’s practice as he continues his recovery from arthroscopic knee surgery.
Garrett returned to the field Wednesday for the first time since the season opener. That marked the start of his 21-day practice window after the team designated him for return from injured reserve.
The two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year underwent the procedure in mid-September. He had played 40 snaps in the Rams’ Week 1 loss to the San Francisco 49ers in Australia before the knee issue forced him out.
Doctors projected a six-week recovery. Garrett has now missed seven consecutive games.
He and defensive tackle Aaron Donald could share the field for the first time Sunday when the Rams visit the Washington Commanders. Donald, who came out of retirement this offseason, sat out the season opener.
The Rams enter the Week 9 matchup at 4-4. They have won two straight games after beating the Los Angeles Chargers 24-9 last Sunday.
Quarterback Matthew Stafford, dealing with a right elbow issue, was a full participant again on Thursday. He has started every game this season.
The injury report showed two other changes. Inside linebacker Grant Stuard did not practice after being limited Wednesday because of a hamstring. Offensive lineman Steve Avila was a full participant a day after being limited with a hamstring.
Cornerback Jaylen Watson (shoulder), long snapper Joe Cardona (ankle), cornerback Trent McDuffie (back), tight end Colby Parkinson (ribs) and safety Kam Curl (foot) again did not practice.
Wide receiver Jordan Whittington (back) and tight end Terrance Ferguson (ankle) remained limited.
Garrett arrived in Los Angeles via a June trade from the Cleveland Browns. The Browns received edge rusher Jared Verse and three draft picks in the deal.
Last season with Cleveland, Garrett set the NFL single-season sack record with 23. He finished with 125.5 career sacks through that campaign and earned his second Defensive Player of the Year award.
Donald has played in six games this year. He has 12 tackles and zero sacks so far.
The Rams’ pass rush has operated without Garrett for most of the season. Byron Young and Josaiah Stewart have handled outside linebacker duties during his absence.
Head coach Sean McVay has emphasized taking the recovery day by day. The team opened Garrett’s practice window this week after monitoring his progress closely.
Garrett’s return would give the defense its full complement of high-profile additions. McDuffie joined the secondary in free agency, while Donald rejoined the defensive line.
Washington enters the game at 2-4-1. The Commanders have struggled to generate consistent offense.
The Rams host the Green Bay Packers after a Week 11 bye. They also face the Kansas City Chiefs and a rematch with the 49ers later in the season.
Activation from injured reserve remains a decision for later in the week. The Rams have several IR-return designations still available.
Practice participation levels will help determine Garrett’s status for Sunday. The team has stressed the importance of him returning at a high performance level rather than simply playing.
The original six-week timeline put a potential return around this window. Thursday’s limited work keeps that possibility open heading into the final practice of the week.
