Aaron Donald Returns to Los Angeles Rams, Joins Myles Garrett

Aaron Donald has made a comeback to the Los Angeles Rams, ending his retirement period of two and a half years. He reunites with the team to strengthen their defensive line alongside Myles Garrett. This decision was officially announced by the Rams, following weeks of discussions and workouts for the 35-year-old star.

Donald stands out as one of the top defensive players in his era, having spent his first ten seasons with the Rams in both St. Louis and Los Angeles. His career highlights include winning three AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards, ten Pro Bowl selections, eight All-Pro selections, and earning a Super Bowl ring. He initially retired in March 2024 but has now decided to return.

Having spent two years of retirement with his family, Donald started contemplating a comeback after the Rams acquired Garrett, who is one of his few peers in the defensive line position. Together, Donald and Garrett have won five of the AP’s past nine Defensive Player of the Year awards, with Garrett earning two of the last three while playing with the Cleveland Browns.

Donald’s return adds significant strength to the Rams’ roster as they aim for a second NFL title under the leadership of coach Sean McVay. McVay has been at the helm for a decade. The team also bolstered their defense by acquiring cornerbacks Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson from Kansas City, creating a more balanced team with a strong defense and an offense that was the best in the NFL last season. Key offensive players remain, including league MVP quarterback Matthew Stafford.

“Former Pittsburgh Panther and retired NFL defensive tackle Aaron Donald in Pittsburgh in 2025,” said Michael Longo from USA Today Network via Reuters Connect.

Donald’s decision revives his eligibility for the Pro Football Hall of Fame, previously set for the 2029 class. His focus now is on seizing the opportunity to win a second ring while playing alongside Garrett and emerging talents Byron Young, Kobie Turner, and Braden Fiske. This lineup is expected to be a formidable challenge for their opponents.