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Why losing Aaron Donald and Myles Garrett might have made the Rams’ defense even stronger

The Rams' defense thrived without Aaron Donald and Myles Garrett against the Eagles. Here's why those valuable snaps could pay off in the NFL playoffs.

Published: Monday, 12 October 2026 at 12:00 PM
Why losing Aaron Donald and Myles Garrett might have made the Rams’ defense even stronger
Key Things to Know
  • Michael Duarte argues missing Aaron Donald and Myles Garrett helped the Rams develop crucial defensive depth and camaraderie.
  • The Los Angeles Rams defeated the Philadelphia Eagles 24-20 without Donald and Garrett in the lineup.
  • The Rams' defense limited the Eagles to 172 total yards and 0-for-12 on third-down attempts.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Michael Duarte argues that the Los Angeles Rams' defensive depth proved resilient after securing a 24-20 victory against the Philadelphia Eagles without injured stars Aaron Donald and Myles Garrett. Playing at Lincoln Financial Field, the Rams limited Philadelphia to 172 total yards and held them to 0-for-12 on third-down conversions.

Defensive coordinator Chris Shula relied on rotation players like Kobie Turner and Braden Fiske, while Byron Young delivered 2.5 sacks. Duarte contends that navigating these absences forged vital camaraderie and confidence, ensuring the unit will be stronger once Donald and Garrett return together.

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