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2026-08-31 02:24 UTC → 2026-09-08 20:56 UTC ·
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By late August 2026, former Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald continued evaluating a potential return to the NFL following his March 2024 retirement. After participating in an official helmet-only workout on August 5, Coach Sean McVay described the session as “the best tryout we’ve ever had,” noting that “things are going in the right direction.” Following recent footwork drills with teammates Braden Fiske and Desjuan Johnson, reports on August 10 suggested Donald might announce a decision by the end of that week. Defensive line coach Giff Smith reportedly called the session the “greatest tryout he has ever witnessed.” As of August 25, Donald remains undecided. With the season approaching in 16 days, McVay stated the team is preparing two different versions of their final 53-player roster: one that includes Donald and one that does not. While McVay previously noted there is no “invisible deadline,” the team is actively managing the logistics of a potential return. Discussions regarding a comeback include possible contract restructuring to address the $30 million remaining on Donald’s previous deal. Insiders suggest the Rams could utilize performance-based incentives—such as bonuses for sack totals, snap counts, or postseason success—to facilitate his return for the 2026 season. The potential reunion with pass-rusher Myles Garrett continues to drive speculation regarding the Rams' defensive front. 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 reported to be worth valued at $20 million, with performance-based incentives that 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 Donald his return has undergone intensive physical preparation to rejoin strengthened the unit alongside Myles Garrett, Rams' roster, Coach Sean McVay has not yet provided established a specific timeline 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.