Because the Rams traded for Myles Garrett, Aaron Donald has been mentioned as a candidate to unretire and return to Los Angeles. Noting has been finalized yet, but this stays a situation value monitoring.
The Rams would after all be open to having Donald back within the fold for 2026. The team will play host to this 12 months’s Super Bowl, and a visit to the title game was already seen as a definite possibility before Garrett arrived. Bringing back Donald at the same time as a rotational defensive presence would add further firepower to Los Angeles’ acclaimed defensive front.
The longer term Hall of Famer is “seriously contemplating” a return, Vincent Bonsignore of the California Post reports. He also confirms a way exists around league that Donald will indeed play for the Rams in 2026. The timing of any potential return is unclear, and the potential for the 35-year-old suiting up midway through the campaign has been raised. In any event, Donald taking steps toward a comeback shall be something to observe closely.
“Here’s what I’d let you know guys overall, too, is Aaron’s a man that I stay really close in contact with, and I do know the respect he has for Myles,” head coach Sean McVay said. “Talked to him concerning the opportunity to give you the option to bring him on board.”
As Bonsignore notes, Donald and McVay have remained involved since talk of a reunion began. The three-time Defensive Player of the Yr had one 12 months remaining on his last extension when he elected to hold up his cleats in 2024. The financial arrangements made to permit for a final Rams campaign would likely not be a difficulty given Los Angeles’ willingness to welcome Donald back for a final campaign. The team currently has nearly $19MM in cap space.
Strong play from Kobie Turner and Braden Fiske has helped the Rams remain productive along the defensive front since Donald’s retirement. Each are still within the fold for 2026, as is veteran Poona Ford. Adding Donald to that blend will remain a serious storyline to follow over the approaching weeks as he gives thought to a return.