One of the most dominant defensive players of the modern era is back. Aaron Donald has agreed to return to the NFL with the Los Angeles Rams, the same franchise where he built his entire professional career and won Super Bowl LVI.
Aaron Donald Comes Out of Retirement and Returns to the NFL With the Rams
Aaron Donald has decided to end his retirement after two seasons away from the NFL and will return to play for the Los Angeles Rams during the 2026 season.
The defensive tackle announced his retirement in March 2024, but after spending two seasons away from the field, he decided to return and strengthen a Rams defense that also recently added Myles Garrett.
The team confirmed the news through social media, and according to reports, Donald signed a one-year, $20 million contract that could be worth up to $30 million with incentives.
Aaron Donald Returns After Two Seasons Away
Talk of a possible comeback began to gain momentum during the offseason. Donald worked out for the Los Angeles Rams on August 5 as the team evaluated his physical condition before officially completing his return.
His decision also comes after the franchise acquired Myles Garrett in a trade with the Cleveland Browns, a move that could make Los Angeles' defensive front one of the most intriguing units in the NFL this season.
Before retiring, Donald played 10 seasons in the league and put together one of the most dominant careers by a defensive player of his generation.
A Rams Legend Returns to Strengthen the Defense
During his first NFL stint, Aaron Donald won the Defensive Player of the Year award three times, earned eight First-Team All-Pro selections and was named to 10 Pro Bowls.
He also finished that chapter of his career with 111 sacks, making him one of the most productive defensive tackles since the NFL began officially recording sacks in 1982.
Donald was also a key part of the Los Angeles Rams' Super Bowl LVI championship and holds the franchise record for career sacks.
