Aaron Donald’s possible return to the Los Angeles Rams has turned an already massive offseason into one of the most anticipated stories in the NFL. The Rams have already added defensive superstar Myles Garrett, who has reportedly exceeded expectations during training camp. Now the possibility of Donald rejoining him on the same defensive line has analysts and players openly discussing whether this defense could become one of the most dominant in league history. Rams head coach Sean McVay said over the weekend that he does not expect Donald to make a decision about coming out of retirement until after the team returns to its facility on August 8.
McVay noted that things are trending in the right direction, a comment that has fueled speculation that a return is likely. General Manager Les Snead told reporters that Donald has ramped up his workouts, including more back-to-back days and higher-intensity sessions. According to Snead, Donald is putting his body and mind through a trial phase to determine whether he can not only get through another NFL season, but do so at the level he expects of himself. Snead reportedly described it this way: whatever Donald’s Madden rating was when he left, he wants it to be the same when he comes back.
He reportedly does not want to return simply to ride on Garrett’s coattails. He wants to be Aaron Donald and have an impact. Players on the roster are reportedly fired up about the possibility, with several sending Donald texts. But they have also underlined that even if he does not return, they feel good about the defense as currently constructed.
The timeline remains uncertain. Donald is taking his time ramping up, and McVay’s comments suggest the coaching staff is optimistic. As one analyst noted, a veteran in his mid-30s doesn’t typically ramp up workouts in the heat of summer just for fun. If he is working out at that level and the head coach says things are trending upward, the math usually adds up.
If Donald does return, the Rams could boast a defensive front featuring both him and Garrett, along with cornerback Trent McDuffie and defensive back Jaylen Watson. Some have called this one of the most historic offseasons in recent memory, especially if rookie quarterback Ty Simpson develops as hoped. Rams offensive lineman Kevin Dotson described what it’s like to practice against Garrett. He said that as soon as the huddle breaks, the first thing everyone does is find out where Garrett is, because if you can’t do that, you can’t figure out anything else.
He said there are very few players in the league who force an offense to change its game plan just to block one guy. When asked for another example, he answered immediately: Aaron Donald. Rams officials reportedly came away from camp saying Garrett was even better than expected, though that was before he dealt with reported soreness in his lower body. Still, analysts caution that the hype may be getting ahead of reality.
Matthew Stafford must stay healthy at his age. Davante Adams has dealt with injuries. The defense has questions at linebacker. And the Rams, like every team, will have to prove it on the field.
The debate has become intense. Some observers point out that the Rams were already being discussed as Super Bowl favorites before Garrett arrived. Then Garrett came, and expectations grew. Now, with Donald potentially returning, the bar has risen to extraordinary heights.
One thing is clear: opposing offenses will have to prepare for the possibility of facing Garrett and Donald on the same defense. If that happens, the pocket could collapse before routes even develop. As of now, Donald’s decision remains unknown.
But the Rams are waiting, and they seem confident about what the answer might be.
