Retired defensive tackle Aaron Donald conducted a workout at the Los Angeles Rams’ team facility on Wednesday, an event the team reported as a “tryout” on the NFL’s official personnel notice. The move has intensified speculation that the 35-year-old star may end his retirement to return to the NFL.
Formalities of the Tryout
Rams head coach Sean McVay clarified that labeling the session a “tryout” was a formality to comply with league rules and processes. McVay told NFL Network and “NFL Daily” that the designation was the team’s way of facilitating a workout within necessary parameters.
McVay joked about the session, stating, Best tryout we’ve ever had. I think he could make the team.
Rams run game coordinator and defensive line coach Giff Smith similarly described it as the greatest tryout he’s ever had.
Donald, who announced his retirement in March 2024, used the session to determine how he felt wearing a helmet after a two-year absence from the game. While he has been seen in workout videos and engaging in drills, McVay noted that Donald is putting his body through the specific training required to see if a return is possible.
Catalyst for a Potential Comeback
Donald previously stated he was completely content without playing football again. However, he began contemplating a return after the Rams executed a blockbuster trade in June to acquire reigning Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett. Donald told ESPN’s Pat McAfee that the acquisition of Garrett pushed him to consider returning to Los Angeles to see if he still had a fire
to play.
Garrett has praised Donald’s approach to the game, citing his impeccable
footwork and intuition regarding run blocks and move usage. Defensive coordinator Chris Shula expressed excitement over the prospect, noting that the team would be getting one of the greatest players of all time.
Timeline and Role Expectations
Despite the momentum, McVay has indicated that an official decision will not be reached during training camp. He stated that no news would be available until the team returns to their Woodland Hills facility, though he noted that if there’s an arrow, it’s trending upwards
and things are going in the right direction.
Reports suggest that if Donald returns, he would not be a starter but would instead serve as a spot player. He is not expected to join the roster until later in training camp or potentially during the regular season. The team is currently awaiting an official announcement from Donald regarding his plans for 2026.
Career Legacy and Future Ventures
Donald’s career with the Rams spanned 10 seasons, during which he achieved the following:
- Three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year
- 10-time Pro Bowl selection
- Eight-time All-Pro selection
- 111 career sacks
- Key role in the Super Bowl LVI victory over the Cincinnati Bengals
Beyond football, Donald is preparing for a transition into media and business. According to Heavy, Donald has signed with Jon Rosen’s management team at Envisionary to expand his brand partnerships and media profile. He is also reportedly in the process of developing a docuseries and currently co-hosts The Inner Circle Podcast.
Related reading
