# Aaron Donald officially rejoins Los Angeles Rams

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/myles-garrett-trade-to-los-angeles-rams
> Updated: 2026-09-08T15:01:55.000Z. Sources: 172. Developments: 46.

On August 30, 2026, Aaron Donald officially ended his two-year retirement by signing a one-year contract with the Los Angeles Rams. The deal is valued at $20 million, with performance-based incentives—including playoff bonuses—that could increase the total value to $30 million. The 35-year-old defensive tackle, a three-time Defensive Player of the Year and eight-time All-Pro, reunites with a defensive front that includes Myles Garrett.

While his return has strengthened the Rams' roster, Coach Sean McVay has not established a definitive timetable for his return to game action. Following the announcement, reports suggested a potential debut as early as Week 2 or Week 3 of the season. 

On September 8, it was confirmed that Donald will not participate in the Rams’ season opener against the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Australia. McVay and reports from ESPN’s Adam Schefter indicated that Donald will not travel to Australia, as the team intends to allow him more time to ramp up his conditioning and preparation. He is expected to be available for the team’s subsequent Monday Night Football matchup against the New York Giants.

## Claims

- The Los Angeles Rams officially announced that Aaron Donald is returning to the team for the 2026 season. (disputed by 29 sources)
- Coach Sean McVay says no decision has been made on Donald’s comeback. (disputed by 3 sources)
- The Rams finalized their initial 53-man roster on Sunday, which included the addition of Aaron Donald. (disputed by 3 sources)
- Donald signed a one-year contract worth $20 million, with incentives that could increase the total to $30 million. (corroborated by 23 sources)
- Aaron Donald is a three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year and an eight-time All-Pro selection. (corroborated by 23 sources)
- Aaron Donald is returning to the NFL after a retirement that lasted more than two years. (corroborated by 22 sources)
- Aaron Donald will play alongside defensive star Myles Garrett on the Rams' defensive line. (corroborated by 17 sources)
- The Rams are aiming for another Super Bowl title following Donald's return. (corroborated by 6 sources)
- Aaron Donald retired in March 2024 after ten NFL seasons with the Los Angeles Rams. (corroborated by 5 sources)
- Myles Garrett was traded from the Cleveland Browns to the Los Angeles Rams less than two months before training camp. (corroborated by 5 sources)
- Myles Garrett participated in the Rams' first training‑camp practice, lining up as a full‑team defense. (corroborated by 5 sources)
- Defensive coordinator Chris Shula said the training‑camp day “definitely lived up to it.” (corroborated by 5 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-09-08: Aaron Donald ruled out of Rams' season opener in Australia

Aaron Donald will miss the Los Angeles Rams' season opener against the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Australia, as the team prioritizes his gradual physical return to the NFL.

17 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aaron-donald-ruled-out-for-rams-season-opener-in-australia

### 2026-09-01: Aaron Donald returns to Los Angeles Rams

Aaron Donald is coming out of retirement to rejoin the Los Angeles Rams on a one-year deal worth up to $30 million, reuniting with Myles Garrett on the defensive line.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aaron-donald-returns-to-los-angeles-rams

### 2026-08-30: Aaron Donald rejoins Los Angeles Rams after retirement

NFL legend Aaron Donald is coming out of retirement to rejoin the Los Angeles Rams for the 2026 season on a one-year, $20 million deal, reuniting with defensive star Myles Garrett.

50 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aaron-donald-rejoins-los-angeles-rams-after-two-year-retirement

### 2026-08-25: Aaron Donald weighs NFL return as Rams prepare dual roster plans

The Los Angeles Rams are preparing roster contingencies as defensive tackle Aaron Donald weighs a potential return to the NFL following his retirement in 2023.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aaron-donald-weighs-nfl-return-as-rams-prepare-dual-roster-plans

### 2026-08-20: Aaron Donald evaluates potential NFL comeback with Los Angeles Rams

Aaron Donald is undergoing workouts with the Los Angeles Rams as he considers coming out of retirement, with head coach Sean McVay stating a decision will be made on the player's timeline.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aaron-donald-evaluates-potential-nfl-comeback-with-los-angeles-rams

### 2026-08-17: Aaron Donald evaluates potential return to Los Angeles Rams

Former defensive tackle Aaron Donald is conducting workouts with the Los Angeles Rams to determine if he will come out of retirement and rejoin the team.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aaron-donald-evaluates-potential-return-to-los-angeles-rams

### 2026-08-10: Aaron Donald expected to announce NFL comeback decision this week

Aaron Donald is expected to decide on a potential NFL comeback by the end of this week following recent workouts with the Los Angeles Rams.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aaron-donald-expected-to-announce-nfl-comeback-decision-this-week

### 2026-08-08: Aaron Donald weighs potential NFL comeback with Los Angeles Rams

Three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year Aaron Donald is considering a comeback to the Los Angeles Rams after two years of retirement, following recent workouts at UCLA and with the team.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aaron-donald-nears-possible-return-to-los-angeles-rams

### 2026-08-05: Aaron Donald Takes Official Rams Workout Toward Possible NFL Return

Aaron Donald, 35, completed an official Rams workout on Aug 5, 2026, sparking talk of a comeback; coach Sean McVay praised the tryout but no decision or contract has been reached yet.

21 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aaron-donald-works-out-with-rams-amid-comeback-speculation

### 2026-07-28: Aaron Donald's Potential Rams Comeback Gains Momentum

Aaron Donald’s training is going well and he’s seriously considering a Rams comeback, though no decision is imminent; the team also faces Alaric Jackson’s legal issue and a hand injury to Justin Dedich.

10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/los-angeles-rams-training-camp-updates

### 2026-07-24: Aaron Donald and Myles Garrett boost Rams' Super Bowl push

Aaron Donald weighs a Rams comeback while Myles Garrett impresses at training camp, bolstering Los Angeles' Super Bowl‑level defense.

34 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aaron-donalds-potential-return-keeps-los-angeles-rams-in-spotlight

### 2026-07-22: Aaron Donald’s Possible Return Sparks Contract Talk with Los Angeles Rams

Aaron Donald is considering a comeback with the Los Angeles Rams. Reports suggest a $30 million deal could be on the table, and coach Sean McVay says the team is ready if he returns.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aaron-donalds-possible-return-sparks-contract-talk-with-los-angeles-rams

### 2026-07-16: Aaron Donald Weighed for Return to Los Angeles Rams

Aaron Donald, 35, is training with the Los Angeles Rams and may return for a full season, encouraged by former teammate Andrew Whitworth after the team added Myles Garrett.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aaron-donald-weighed-for-return-to-los-angeles-rams

### 2026-07-13: Aaron Donald's Potential Return to Los Angeles Rams Sparks Roster and Championship Debate

Aaron Donald tested his fitness at the Rams' facility; insiders say a comeback is possible and would reshape the team's defensive line and salary cap.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aaron-donald-trains-at-rams-facility-as-return-rumors-intensify

### 2026-07-11: Aaron Donald Spotted Training at Rams Facility Amid Comeback Speculation

Retired Rams star Aaron Donald was seen training at the team’s facility, sparking renewed speculation of a comeback, especially after the Rams acquired Myles Garrett.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aaron-donald-works-out-at-rams-facility-amid-comeback-speculation

### 2026-07-05: Aaron Donald's cryptic emoji fuels Rams comeback speculation

Aaron Donald’s “👀” Instagram reply has reignited rumors of a Rams comeback after his 2023 retirement, especially following the team’s trade for Myles Garrett.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aaron-donald-speculation-fuels-debate-over-possible-rams-comeback

### 2026-06-30: Los Angeles Rams trade for Myles Garrett as they weigh Aaron Donald comeback and Stafford’s future

The Rams traded for Myles Garrett, gave up three high picks and Jared Verse, drafted QB Ty Simpson, and face rumors that retired star Aaron Donald may return as they maximize Matthew Stafford’s final window.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/los-angeles-rams-trade-for-myles-garrett-as-they-weigh-aaron-donald-comeback-and-staffords-future

### 2026-06-29: Aaron Donald Considers Return to Los Angeles Rams

Aaron Donald, the 35‑year‑old former Rams star who retired in June, is reportedly in talks with Los Angeles about a possible comeback, which could pair him with Myles Garrett on the defensive line.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aaron-donald-considers-return-to-los-angeles-rams

### 2026-06-27: Aaron Donald Mulls Return to Los Angeles Rams Amid Super Bowl Push

Former Rams star Aaron Donald is weighing an unretirement as Los Angeles builds a Super Bowl‑ready defense, with coach Sean McVay urged to seal the deal while former teammate Gerald McCoy doubts his motivation.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aaron-donald-mulls-return-to-los-angeles-rams-amid-super-bowl-push

### 2026-06-25: Myles Garrett trade to Rams reshapes Browns roster

Myles Garrett joins the Rams; the Browns receive three draft picks and edge rusher Jared Verse, prompting talk of further roster moves and Super Bowl implications.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/myles-garrett-trade-to-rams-reshapes-browns-roster

### 2026-06-25: Cleveland Browns consider contract and trade options for Denzel Ward

Denzel Ward has two years left on a $100.5 M extension, limited Browns cap space, injury concerns, and trade rumors linking him to the 49ers, though he says he wants to stay in Cleveland.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cleveland-browns-consider-contract-and-trade-options-for-denzel-ward

### 2026-06-22: Browns Likely to Trade Pro Bowl Cornerback Denzel Ward in 2026

The Cleveland Browns are weighing a trade of Pro Bowl cornerback Denzel Ward during the 2026 season, with deadline speculation and possible interest from teams like the Green Bay Packers.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/browns-likely-to-trade-pro-bowl-cornerback-denzel-ward-in-2026

### 2026-06-20: Los Angeles Rams add Myles Garrett, spark Aaron Donald comeback talk

The Rams traded for Myles Garrett, prompting safety Kam Curl to hail a ‘legendary’ defense, while ex‑player Andrew Whitworth warned a possible Aaron Donald return would be ‘scary.’

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/los-angeles-rams-add-myles-garrett-spark-aaron-donald-comeback-talk

### 2026-06-20: Myles Garrett’s Cleveland stints praised on field but strained in locker room

Myles Garrett, a top pass rusher for the Browns, earned respect on the field but was criticized for poor locker‑room relations, prompting fan backlash and his trade to the Los Angeles Rams.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/myles-garretts-cleveland-stints-praised-on-field-but-strained-in-locker-room

### 2026-06-17: Los Angeles Rams push for Aaron Donald's comeback as teammates tout defensive boost

Rams safety Kamren Curl and defensive star Myles Garrett say Aaron Donald’s return could cap a revamped defense and boost the team’s Super Bowl chances for 2026.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/los-angeles-rams-push-for-aaron-donalds-comeback-as-teammates-tout-defensive-boost

### 2026-06-09: Aaron Donald may return to Los Angeles Rams this season

NFL insiders see a likely Aaron Donald comeback to the Rams, boosted by their trade for Myles Garrett and a $18.9M cap space, though no deal is confirmed.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aaron-donald-may-return-to-los-angeles-rams-this-season

### 2026-06-09: Rams' Myles Garrett trade sparks contract debate, Aaron Donald comeback talk

The Rams' trade for Myles Garrett, featuring a controversial eight‑void‑year contract, has sparked fan backlash and revived talk of Aaron Donald returning to play for Los Angeles.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/rams-myles-garrett-trade-sparks-contract-debate-aaron-donald-comeback-talk

### 2026-06-08: Los Angeles Rams acquire Myles Garrett in blockbuster trade

The Los Angeles Rams traded for two‑time Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett, hoping his record‑breaking pass‑rushing will propel them to a Super Bowl.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/los-angeles-rams-acquire-myles-garrett-in-blockbuster-trade-1

### 2026-06-08: Aaron Donald's Possible NFL Comeback Stalls Over Physical Toll and Commitment

Aaron Donald's NFL return remains doubtful as former teammate Eric Weddle cites the intense physical demands and commitment needed, suggesting only a limited playoff stint might be viable.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aaron-donalds-possible-nfl-comeback-stalls-over-physical-toll-and-commitment

### 2026-06-07: Myles Garrett Throws First Pitch at Dodgers in Kobe Bryant Tee and Air Jordans

Myles Garrett, newly traded to the LA Rams, threw the first pitch at Dodger Stadium wearing a Kobe Bryant shirt and Air Jordan 11 Low “Space Jam” sneakers, citing Bryant’s influence.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/myles-garrett-throws-first-pitch-at-dodgers-in-kobe-bryant-tee-and-air-jordans

### 2026-06-07: Los Angeles Rams acquire Myles Garrett in blockbuster trade with Cleveland Browns

The Rams trade three picks for two‑time Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett, bolstering their Super Bowl push; the Browns receive draft capital to rebuild.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/los-angeles-rams-acquire-myles-garrett-in-blockbuster-trade-with-cleveland-browns-1

### 2026-06-06: Denzel Ward pledges to remain with Browns after Garrett trade

Cleveland Browns traded Myles Garrett to the Rams; Denzel Ward said he remains committed to the Browns, calling Garrett a friend and emphasizing the team's future plans.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/denzel-ward-pledges-to-remain-with-browns-after-garrett-trade

### 2026-06-06: Myles Garrett trade to Rams raises concerns over long‑term value

The Rams traded for 30‑year‑old Myles Garrett, giving up Jared Verse and draft picks; analysts doubt the long‑term value. The Browns receive Verse and lean on veteran Maliek Collins for leadership.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/myles-garrett-trade-to-rams-raises-concerns-over-longterm-value

### 2026-06-05: Myles Garrett trade to Rams follows Browns GM's cross‑sport consulting

The Browns traded Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett to the Rams, with GM Andrew Berry consulting other‑sport executives, while the Eagles were linked but did not secure the player.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/myles-garrett-trade-to-rams-follows-browns-gms-crosssport-consulting

### 2026-06-05: Aaron Donald Weighed for 2026 Return by Los Angeles Rams

The Los Angeles Rams, after trading for Myles Garrett, are exploring a 2026 comeback for retired defensive tackle Aaron Donald, with teammate Davante Adams publicly urging his return.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aaron-donald-weighed-for-2026-return-by-los-angeles-rams

### 2026-06-05: Myles Garrett moves to Los Angeles Rams; Chloe Kim says she didn't orchestrate trade

Myles Garrett was traded from the Cleveland Browns to the Los Angeles Rams; girlfriend Olympian Chloe Kim said she did not influence the deal.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/myles-garrett-joins-los-angeles-rams-chloe-kim-denies-shaping-trade

### 2026-06-04: Trent Williams reacts to Myles Garrett’s trade to the Los Angeles Rams

Trent Williams said the Rams’ trade for Myles Garrett “sucks for everyone not in Rams country,” noting the challenge ahead as they’ll meet again in an upcoming game in Australia.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/trent-williams-reacts-to-myles-garretts-trade-to-the-los-angeles-rams

### 2026-06-04: Myles Garrett joins Los Angeles Rams in blockbuster trade

Myles Garrett was traded to the Rams for Jared Verse and three future picks; his contract was restructured, he joined OTAs right away, and the move sparked reactions from fans, Jared Verse, and girlfriend Chloe

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/los-angeles-rams-acquire-myles-garrett-in-blockbuster-trade-with-cleveland-browns

### 2026-06-03: Aaron Donald Rumored to Return to Rams After Garrett Trade

After trading for Myles Garrett, the Rams sparked rumors that Aaron Donald may quit retirement, with the player, his wife, coach Sean McVay, Cooper Kupp and O’Shea Jackson Jr. all weighing in.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aaron-donald-eyes-possible-rams-comeback-after-myles-garrett-trade

### 2026-06-03: Los Angeles Rams acquire Myles Garrett as trade block freezes 2029 first‑round pick

The Rams trade for Myles Garrett, sending Jared Verse and three draft picks, while the Browns lock their 2029 first‑round pick, reshaping cap and roster strategies for both teams.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/los-angeles-rams-acquire-myles-garrett-as-trade-block-freezes-2029-firstround-pick

### 2026-06-03: Myles Garrett trade gives Rams extra primetime NFL games

The Rams trade for two‑time Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett, boosting their defense and securing seven primetime NFL games this season.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/myles-garrett-trade-gives-rams-extra-primetime-nfl-games

### 2026-06-02: Myles Garrett Traded to Los Angeles Rams in Blockbuster Deal

Myles Garrett moves from the Browns to the Rams for Jared Verse and multiple draft picks; the Rams rework his contract, and Aaron Donald hints at a possible comeback.

17 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/los-angeles-rams-acquire-myles-garrett-in-blockbuster-trade

### 2026-06-02: Los Angeles Rams trade for Myles Garrett fuels Aaron Donald comeback speculation

After trading for Myles Garrett, the Los Angeles Rams have sparked speculation that retired defensive tackle Aaron Donald may unretire, with coaches and teammates urging him to consider a comeback.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aaron-donald-linked-to-rams-comeback-after-myles-garrett-trade

### 2026-06-01: Myles Garrett moves from Browns to Rams in blockbuster NFL trade

Seven‑time All‑Pro Myles Garrett was dealt from the Cleveland Browns to the Los Angeles Rams on June 1 in exchange for pass‑rusher Jared Burse and three future draft picks.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/myles-garrett-moves-from-browns-to-rams-in-blockbuster-nfl-trade

### 2026-05-31: Los Angeles Rams acquire Myles Garrett from Cleveland Browns in blockbuster trade

The Rams trade for two‑time Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett, giving the Browns Jared Verse and three future draft picks; the deal makes LA Super Bowl favorites and sparks a rebuild in Cleveland.

27 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/los-angeles-rams-acquire-myles-garrett-from-cleveland-browns

### 2026-05-30: Myles Garrett traded to Los Angeles Rams in blockbuster deal

Myles Garrett is traded from the Browns to the Rams for Jared Verse, a 2027 first‑round pick and other assets, ending a blockbuster deal involving the NFL’s top pass rusher.

53 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nfl-postjune-1-salarycap-moves-shape-eagles-and-saints-roster-decisions

---
Cite as: Aaron Donald officially rejoins Los Angeles Rams. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/myles-garrett-trade-to-los-angeles-rams