Aaron Donald returns to Rams on one-year, $20 million contract
Defensive tackle Aaron Donald has ended his retirement, signing a one-year deal worth $20 million with the Los Angeles Rams, joining fellow star Myles Garrett on the defensive line.
Aaron Donald announced his return to the NFL on Sunday, signing a one-year contract with the Los Angeles Rams reportedly worth $20 million, with up to $10 million in incentives. The former defensive tackle, who retired in March after missing two seasons, said he had spent the past 12 to 13 weeks training to be "ready to come back to try and do something special with this group of guys."
Donald’s comeback follows the Rams' acquisition of defensive end Myles Garrett in early June, a move that prompted speculation about reuniting the two players. Head coach Sean McVay said he had spoken with Donald about the opportunity and noted that, at age 35, Donald could still perform at a high level.
During his previous stint with the Rams, Donald recorded 111 career sacks and was part of the team’s Super Bowl LVI victory in 2022. His Hall of Fame eligibility will reset, requiring a five-year waiting period after his final retirement. Donald will prepare for the Rams' season opener against the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Australia, on Sept. 10.