Reflecting on the loss, Garrett was candid about his physical state, admitting that his knee was not fully healthy heading into the matchup. The defensive standout missed significant time during training camp due to swelling, and he acknowledged that his focus was divided between his physical limitations and the demands of the game. He noted that he was preoccupied with staying healthy rather than fully engaging with the opposition's offensive scheme.
Injury concerns and defensive struggles
Garrett, who set the single-season sack record last year while with the Cleveland Browns, admitted he was not at his best. He stated that he needs to find a way to recover and return to the level of play he has previously demonstrated. While Rams head coach
The impact of the defensive line's struggles was evident in the team's inability to pressure 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy. The Rams managed to pressure the quarterback on only 19 percent of his dropbacks, which stands as their third-lowest rate since the start of the 2024 season. Tracking data indicated that Garrett contributed only three individual pressures throughout the game.
Opponent perspective and team outlook
Despite the lack of statistical production, San Francisco left tackle Trent Williams offered praise for his opponent, noting that Garrett remained a difficult challenge regardless of his physical condition. Williams remarked that he could not definitively tell Garrett was hampered by an injury, emphasizing that the defender remains a formidable presence on the field.
San Francisco head coach Kyle Shanahan credited his offensive line for their execution, stating that the team did not alter their game plan even after learning that defensive tackle Aaron Donald would not be participating. For Garrett, the immediate priority is clear as the team looks toward Week 2. When asked about his primary focus moving forward, the defender stated simply that he is prioritizing getting healthy to ensure he can be the player his team requires.
