LOS ANGELES Rams defensive end Myles Garrett described his season-opening performance against the San Francisco 49ers as "the worst version of myself that I've put out there."
Garrett, a star acquisition for the Rams, was subbed out for multiple stretches during the game. He recorded no sacks, tackles, or quarterback pressures—only the fourth time in his professional career he finished a game with those numbers.
His struggles stemmed from a knee swelling issue that affected him throughout training camp. Rams coach Sean McVey said in August that Garrett was at 85 percent. Limited work during camp left Garrett both physically restricted and rusty in his debut.
Garrett said his focus during the game was on managing his physical state rather than the opponent's strategy. "Getting healthy. That's the main thing," he said. "When I was out there, I was a little bit more focused on myself and trying to stay healthy than what they were doing and that showed. I wasn't who I needed to be for my team."
The 49ers' run scheme contributed to limiting Garrett, but a game plan typically does not fully contain a player of his experience. Garrett is the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year and a two-time Associated Press NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
His health will determine his impact on the Rams' season.
