Aaron Donald, 35, Trains for a Possible Rams Comeback After Two Years Retired: Should a Three-Time Defensive Player of the Year Un-Retire?
Aaron Donald, who retired from the Los Angeles Rams in 2024 after winning three Defensive Player of the Year awards, has spent the summer of 2026 working out with the team and is reportedly weighing a return at age 35. Interest reportedly grew after the Rams traded for star pass rusher Myles Garrett, with reporting suggesting Donald could pair with Garrett and Byron Young on the defensive line, potentially easing the physical burden on him compared to his earlier seasons as the Rams' primary interior force. NFL Network's Steve Wyche has reported the general expectation is that Donald will return to the Rams, though Donald has not made a final decision and ESPN's Adam Schefter suggested he could wait through the summer before deciding. Some Rams legends have publicly urged him to stay retired and protect his legacy, while others argue the current roster makes this a rare, low-risk opportunity to add a Hall of Fame talent.
