Star DT Donald unretires to rejoin loaded Rams
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- Aaron Donald agreed to a one-year, $20 million contract with the Rams, with playoff incentives that can raise its value to $30 million, sources told ESPN and NFL Network.
- Los Angeles Rams announced Donald's return to the team, where he will reunite with newly acquired defensive end Myles Garrett, creating a dominant defensive front.
- Aaron Donald retired in March 2024 after 10 seasons but began a strict training regimen following the Rams' trade for Garrett in June, leading to his decision to return.
- Sean McVay said Donald looked "outstanding" during a private workout at Loyola Marymount University, confirming his physical readiness for the 2026 season.
- Los Angeles Rams enter the season as Super Bowl LXI favorites, with the game set to be played at their home stadium, SoFi Stadium, where they won Super Bowl LVI four years earlier.
- Aaron Donald becomes the only player besides Deion Sanders to return after a 750-day layoff as a five-time first-team All-Pro, per ESPN Research.
Why it matters: The Rams gain an elite defensive force in Donald, whose $30M-max deal ties immediate financial upside to playoff success, while opponents now face a historic pass rush duo in Donald and Garrett at full strength in a Super Bowl-host stadium.
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