Aaron Donald ends retirement to rejoin Los Angeles Rams

Aaron Donald rejoined the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday, ending a 2½-year retirement and signing a one-year contract reportedly worth at least $20 million in incentives. The 35-year-old defensive tackle, a three-time AP Defensive Player of the Year and ten-time Pro Bowler, participated in a light practice at the team’s training complex and met with teammates, including new addition Myles Garrett.

"Do I feel like I can play at a high level? Yes," Donald said. "Do I feel like I can still be myself? One hundred percent, and if I didn’t feel like that, I wouldn’t be here."

Donald, who retired after the 2023-24 season, spent the past two years on business ventures and family time before considering a comeback following the Rams’ trade for Garrett. He confirmed his decision about two weeks ago after daily discussions with head coach Sean McVay.

"He means a lot to me, and it’s way bigger than football. There’s a lot of history, a lot of experiences we’ve shared, a lot of love for each other’s families. I’m excited to start this journey," McVay said.

The Rams, already favored to contend for a second Super Bowl under quarterback Matthew Stafford, have bolstered their defense with Garrett, cornerbacks Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson, and young linemen such as Byron Young and Kobie Turner. Donald, who holds the Rams’ franchise record with 111 career sacks, said his conditioning and technique have held up during his return to NFL-level training.

"I’ve been in a football mindset for the last 14 weeks. If anything, it’s just getting back on the grass and knocking the rust off as far as playing football again," Donald added.

Donald’s comeback resets the eligibility clock for his pending Hall of Fame induction, but he emphasized his focus on contributing to a potential championship run alongside Garrett and the revamped defensive line.