Chris Shula news
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The gist
Rams DC Chris Shula said Aaron Donald's status is "day by day" before Thursday's opener in.
Donald's availability shapes the Rams' plan against the 49ers in Melbourne.
Background
Aaron Donald is practicing with the Rams after a two-year retirement, but the team has not said whether he will play in the season opener against the 49ers in Melbourne. Defensive coordinator Chris Shula said the team is preparing for all scenarios and will have a plan for however many plays Donald feels he can go. 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan said he expects Donald to play, while Donald himself declined to reveal his plans, including whether he will be on the team flight to Australia.
How it unfolded
- Sep 7, 2026At a Monday press conference, Rams defensive coordinator Chris Shula said everything is "day by day" with Aaron Donald and that the team is preparing for all possible scenarios for Thursday's game.
- Sep 7, 2026Aaron Donald declined to reveal his plans for the season opener, including whether he would be on the Rams' flight to Melbourne scheduled for Tuesday night.
- Sep 7, 202649ers coach Kyle Shanahan said he expects to see Donald on the field in Melbourne.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Rams DC Chris Shula said the team is ready for Donald if he plays and ready if he doesn't, with a plan for however many plays he feels he can go.
- Caution
- Shula declined to say whether Donald is working in 11-on-11 drills, and Donald would not commit to being on the flight to Melbourne.
- Support
- 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan said he expects to see Donald on the field Thursday night.
Still unverified
Whether Aaron Donald will play in the season opener, and whether he is participating in 11-on-11 drills, remains unclear; Shula declined to say and Donald declined to reveal his plans.