Shanahan: 49ers-Rams opener in Australia ‘feels exactly like Week 1’

The San Francisco 49ers are less than 24 hours away from opening the 2026 season against the Los Angeles Rams in Australia, and head coach Kyle Shanahan provided several important updates Wednesday.

Perhaps the biggest news came from the Rams’ side, as Shanahan confirmed that he was excited to learn that defensive lineman Aaron Donald, who recently came out of retirement, will not play in Thursday’s opener.

Shanahan previously believed Donald would suit up against the 49ers, making the news a welcome surprise.

“Very excited. I told you guys last time I talked to you guys he was definitely playing, so I’ve never been more excited to be wrong about something,” Shanahan said.

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 29: Los Angeles Rams defensive end Aaron Donald #99 lines up during a 23-20 San Francisco 49ers win at SoFi Stadium on November 29, 2020 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

Donald’s absence, however, won’t change San Francisco’s plans along the offensive line.

When asked whether Donald being ruled out would impact the team’s plans at left guard, Shanahan simply said, “No.”

The 49ers will still need to manage the workloads of two of their biggest stars.

Defensive end Nick Bosa has not practiced as much this week, while tight end George Kittle has participated throughout the week. Shanahan said both look good but acknowledged the team needs to be smart with how much they play.

He also confirmed that running back Christian McCaffrey is feeling “awesome” and is “ready to go.”

While there was plenty of positive news, the 49ers also suffered a significant loss this week. Defensive lineman Alfred Collins tore his patellar tendon during Thursday’s practice and will miss the entire season.

“It was real unfortunate for him,” Shanahan said.

Alfred Collins #95 of the San Francisco 49ers pursues the play against the Denver Broncos during an NFL Preseason 2025 game at Levi’s Stadium on August 09, 2025 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

Collins is the second 49ers defensive lineman lost for the year following roster cuts, creating an immediate depth concern heading into Week 1. Shanahan said any available defensive lineman could potentially be considered to help fill the void, even joking about finding some local “footy guys” in Australia.

Despite the unique circumstances surrounding the game, Shanahan doesn’t view Thursday’s matchup as anything other than a normal season opener.

“It feels exactly like Week One,” he said.

The 49ers have spent the week in Australia preparing for the Rams while also attempting to manage the massive time difference and the impact of traveling so far from home. Shanahan said the team has maintained its normal weekly schedule and believes the players will have enough time to adjust before facing the Dolphins in Week 2.

And while Shanahan acknowledged the travel strategy could become a talking point depending on the outcome, he doesn’t believe it will ultimately decide Thursday’s game.

“The real thing that’s going to help this game the most or hurt this game the most is who plays better football.”