The Los Angeles Rams held a workout for 35-year-old defensive tackle Aaron Donald on August 5, 2026, as he contemplates a potential return to the NFL. This session was officially labeled as a "tryout" since Donald utilized team equipment, including a helmet, during the workout, which had to be reported to the league.
Why it matters: Aaron Donald is a future Hall of Famer and one of the most dominant defensive players in NFL history. His potential return could significantly bolster the Rams' defense as they aim for success in the upcoming season.
- Donald retired in March 2024 after a stellar career with the Rams, where he earned three Defensive Player of the Year awards and recorded 111 sacks.
- His workout comes after the Rams acquired star defensive end Myles Garrett, which has reportedly influenced Donald's decision-making about returning.
- Head coach Sean McVay has indicated that the team is open to welcoming Donald back into the lineup, highlighting the urgency of his decision.
Driving the news: The workout was described by McVay as a formality to comply with league regulations. He humorously remarked that it was the "best tryout we've ever had," adding that he believes Donald "could make the team." This light-hearted comment reflects the team's optimism about Donald's fitness and readiness.
- Defensive line coach Giff Smith echoed McVay's sentiments, calling Donald's workout the greatest tryout he’s ever witnessed.
- McVay noted that the team must work within the parameters of league rules to conduct such workouts, especially for a player of Donald's stature.
- Donald remains undecided about his return, but indications from the Rams suggest that they are preparing for his possible comeback.
State of play: Donald's last game was in January 2024, and since then, he has been away from professional football. His return would be a personal achievement and a strategic advantage for the Rams, who have revamped their roster this offseason.
- The Rams have added several key players, including Myles Garrett, who may alleviate some of the defensive pressure on Donald if he returns.
- McVay stated that the team is considering how to integrate Donald into their defensive schemes, potentially limiting his snap count to keep him fresh.
- General manager Les Snead mentioned that if Donald does come back, he wouldn’t play as many snaps as he did before retirement, aiming to preserve his effectiveness.
The big picture: The Rams have assembled a roster that many are calling a "dream team," with high-profile acquisitions that raise expectations for the upcoming season.
- With reigning league MVP Matthew Stafford and elite wide receivers like Davante Adams and Puka Nacua, the Rams are positioned for a deep playoff run.
- Donald’s return could provide a much-needed boost to a defense that aims to reclaim its dominance in the league.
- As of now, Donald's decision remains pending, with speculation intensifying around when he might officially rejoin the team.
What they're saying: Analysts and fans alike are buzzing about the implications of Donald's potential return. Many believe that if he decides to come back, it could tilt the balance of power in the NFC.
- “If Donald joins the Rams, few would bet against them to win the Super Bowl,” said one NFL analyst, highlighting the impact of his presence.
- Donald himself has expressed mixed feelings about returning, noting that he has maintained his fitness over the years but is cautious about re-entering the fray.
- “The game honors toughness, and all the guys that we’ve added are physically and mentally tough,” McVay commented, emphasizing the culture shift within the team.
By the numbers: Aaron Donald’s statistics speak volumes about his impact on the field.
- In his career, Donald recorded 111 sacks and 24 forced fumbles, making him one of the most feared defensive linemen in NFL history.
- He played 867 snaps in his last season, indicating his high level of involvement and physical demand on the field.
- The Rams’ defense ranked among the lowest in pay last season, making Donald's potential return even more financially strategic for the team.
What's next: As the Rams continue their training camp, they await Donald's decision, which could come soon after they return to their home facility in Woodland Hills.
- McVay has hinted that they may not receive any news until after a few weeks of practice, maintaining a level of patience with Donald's situation.
- Should Donald choose to return, he is expected to join the team later in training camp or potentially during the regular season.
- The NFL world is watching closely, as Donald's comeback could redefine the Rams' chances in the 2026 season.