Aaron Donald signs with Rams, gets roster exemption as 49ers brace for his return
On September 1, San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch said the team is preparing for a possible encounter with Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald in the upcoming Australia matchup. The NFL granted the Rams a two-game roster exemption, allowing Donald to occupy a roster spot without counting against the limit through the season opener. On August 25, Donald ended his two-year retirement by signing a one-year, $20 million contract, joining Myles Garrett on the defensive line.
Donald said his speed had not declined and credited his wife’s support for his decision to return. Earlier, the Rams were planning roster scenarios with and without Donald, and head coach Sean McVay noted the team had no definitive information on his comeback.