Aaron Donald signs one-year contract to return to the Rams
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 31, 2026, 11:00 PM
Last updated Aug 31, 2026

Aaron Donald officially ended his retirement on August 30, 2026, by signing a one-year contract with the Los Angeles Rams. The deal is worth $20 million with incentives that could increase the value to $30 million. The 35-year-old defensive lineman had not played since March 2024, closing out a 10-season career that included a Super Bowl LVI title and three Defensive Player of the Year awards. Rams general manager Les Snead noted that Donald appeared energized and relieved during his return to the team facility. Donald joins a defensive front that now features Myles Garrett and Trent McDuffie. The team expects his veteran presence to bolster a roster currently structured for a title run.
- •Aaron Donald signed a one-year contract worth up to $30 million with incentives.
- •The 35-year-old had been retired since March 2024.
- •Les Snead described Donald as appearing younger and joyful upon his return.
- •The Rams defensive front now includes both Donald and Myles Garrett.
- 11:00 PMYahoo Sports — Rams GM Snead says he saw 'joy' in Aaron Donald when he returned
"Les Snead is excited to see one of his former players return to the field in 2026.
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