AARON DONALD SKIPS RAMS' AUSTRALIA TRIP FOR SEASON OPENER

Aaron Donald will not travel to Melbourne, Australia, for the Los Angeles Rams' season opener against the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday. The Rams defensive tackle has been ruled out for Week 1 of the NFL season. The team announced the decision regarding the player, who carries a reported contract value of $20 million.

Donald's absence means the Rams will face the 49ers without one of their key defensive players for the match in Australia. The decision to keep him from the grueling flight across the Pacific came ahead of the fixture. Details of the reason for his non-travel have not been disclosed in official announcements.

The Rams will proceed with their season opener without Donald's participation. His status for subsequent weeks has not been confirmed. The franchise will rely on alternative defensive options for the Week 1 contest in Melbourne.