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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 signs one-year contract to return to the Rams

Summary

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.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•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.

Latest Updates

9:58 AMYahoo Sports — What Rams GM Les Snead has noticed about Aaron Donald that’s really ‘impressed’ him
11:00 PMYahoo Sports — Rams GM Snead says he saw 'joy' in Aaron Donald when he returned

What they're saying

"
Aaron Donald’s return to the Los Angeles Rams has been confirmed as the offseason saga finally comes to an end. Despite the future Hall of Fame defender returning to the NFL, there will be a sense of relief across the league that the media circus surrounding his decision can now conclude.
— Yahoo Sports