As training camp approaches, former All-Pro defensive tackle Aaron Donald is weighing a potential return to football that would end his two-year retirement, participating in a recent workout at the Rams’ facility in Woodland Hills. Donald, who retired after the 2023 season, went through drills and a full practice field session to test whether his body is ready for the rigorous grind of an NFL season.
Aaron Donald Tests the Waters With Los Angeles Rams Facility Workout
Rumblings of a comeback intensified in June following the Rams’ blockbuster trade for reigning Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett. While Donald has not spoken publicly in depth about his plans—only telling Pat McAfee and Jordan Schultz last month that he is considering a comeback—he recently exchanged text messages with Chris Simms of NBC Sports regarding his status.
Honestly, I don’t know yet,
Donald told Simms when asked if he plans to give a return a shot.
Inside the Rams Organization: Waiting Patiently for a Decision
There is no clear timeline for a final decision, which could potentially spill into the regular season. However, leadership figures within the franchise have made it clear they are willing to give the legendary defensive tackle all the time he needs.
Rams CEO Kevin Demoff and COO Tony Pastoors addressed Donald’s status during a team event, with Demoff noting that franchise leadership follows developments just like the fans do. Demoff and Pastoors emphasized that the decision rests entirely with the three-time Defensive Player of the Year and Super Bowl 56 champion.
We want Aaron to go through Aaron’s process and whenever he’s ready, we’ll be ready,
Pastoors told the crowd, adding that he would ultimately rather have Donald available during actual football games than in July.
Head coach Sean McVay mentioned that things were going in the right direction while noting that no formal decision would come during training camp. Run game coordinator and defensive line coach Giff Smith reportedly called Donald’s recent non-padded evaluation session the greatest tryout he has ever seen.
Defensive Coordinator Chris Shula Eyes Historic Lineup Possibilities
Defensive coordinator Chris Shula expressed immense enthusiasm regarding the possibility of a Donald comeback, highlighting what the future Hall of Famer would bring to the unit alongside Garrett. Shula admitted he has thought about the prospect of pairing the two dominant defenders.
Obviously, I’d be really excited about that,
Shula said. You’re getting one of the best players of all time.
If Donald ultimately decides to return to the field, he would join a loaded defensive front line in Los Angeles that already features Garrett, Kobie Turner, Braden Fiske, Poona Ford, and Byron Young. Such a lineup would present a major tactical hurdle for opposing offensive coordinators attempting to slow down multiple all-time talents.
The Rams are scheduled to open their regular season at home against the San Francisco 49ers in an NFC West showdown on Thursday, Sept. 10, leaving fans and team executives waiting to see if Donald will file a comeback before the games begin.
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