Aaron Donald prepares to return to the Rams for the 2026 season

Aaron Donald plans to return to the Rams after a two-year retirement. The 35-year-old defensive player has spent the summer conducting football-specific conditioning and drills to prepare for a comeback. Donald stated that he maintained his physical fitness during his time away from the league through weight training and treadmill work. He recently rejoined his longtime speed trainer, Dewayne Brown, to verify that his movement and footwork remain at a high level. Rams head coach Sean McVay indicated that Donald could participate in the team's season opener against the 49ers in Australia on September 10. The veteran player underwent three months of preparation to ensure he felt capable of returning to professional competition.

• 8:29 AMYahoo Sports — Aaron Donald: My longtime speed trainer told me I haven't lost a step