Chris Shula is planning for two defenses. In one, Aaron Donald wrecks the 49ers' plans. In the other, the Rams' defensive line needs someone else to do the wrecking. Shula, the Rams' defensive coordinator, said Donald's status for the season opener in Australia is "day by day." The Rams and 49ers meet Sept. 13.
Los Angeles opens its 2026 season on an overseas trip, and the question of whether Donald plays shadowed every other preparation. Donald is a defensive tackle. That description undersells his impact. When he's in the middle, the 49ers have to account for him on every run and pass play. The Rams can play with one high safety. The edge rushers get one-on-one looks. If Donald is out, the whole front changes. San Francisco can attack interior lanes with more confidence and Shula must get creative to manufacture pressure.
Shula gave no detail about Donald's condition or a possible return date. "Day by day" is what coaches say when they really don't know. It also keeps the 49ers from knowing what to prepare for. The trip to Australia makes this trickier. Training across time zones, practicing overseas, and a game on the other side of the world — all of that is hard enough without an uncertain roster.
My guess: The Rams know more than Shula is saying. This feels like a game-time decision. The 49ers should prepare as if Donald will play. Shula should plan as if he won't. If Donald can go, great. If not, Los Angeles needs its other linemen ready to shoulder the middle against a team built to run.