Aaron Donald returns to Los Angeles Rams after two-season retirement
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 31, 2026, 12:52 AM
Last updated Aug 31, 2026

Aaron Donald announced his return to the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday after spending two seasons away from the NFL. The veteran defensive standout rejoined the team and participated in his first practice since the 2023 season. Donald disclosed that he reached the decision to resume his career approximately two weeks ago, despite maintaining regular contact with head coach Sean throughout the process. He has spent the last 14 weeks preparing with a football mindset following the team's acquisition of Myles Garrett. Donald expressed confidence in his ability to compete at his previous high level, noting that he would not have returned if he did not believe he could replicate his former performance. He is now focused on acclimating to 11-on-11 drills and refining his reactions on the field.
- •Aaron Donald officially ended his two-season retirement on Sunday.
- •The defensive player reported to the Rams for his first practice.
- •Donald stated he finalized his comeback decision two weeks ago.
- •He maintained a training mindset for 14 weeks prior to his return.
- •Donald expects to maintain his previous performance standards on the field.
- 12:52 AMYahoo Sports — Aaron Donald reveals how long ago he knew he was coming back
"Aaron Donald didn't just decide on Sunday that he was coming back. He's known for a little while it was happening.
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