It’s been two years since Aaron Donald retired from the league, but it looks like he is already in the business of returning for 2026.
The veteran defensive star was spotted working out at the Los Angeles Rams facility, and several personalities around the league have confirmed that his return could be imminent, considering he has not lost his physicality and the mindset to compete.
While Myles Garrett’s arrival has fortified LA’s defense, that very move appears to have motivated Donald to consider coming out of retirement. If that happens, the Rams would become unstoppable, and one former Niner is already projecting that scenario.
Aaron Donald’s Workout at Rams Facility Turns Heads
While speaking to the panel on Good Morning Football, former San Francisco 49ers DB Donte Whitner shed light on how things could change for the Rams. More than playing, he claims that Donald’s presence would be an exhilarating experience for the youngsters. He is good enough to coach, and if he returns to play, that’s a whole other level for the team in reality.
“It’s a huge deal. Think about this: the greatest defender of this generation walks into the building. You know what instantly happens? Everybody’s standard rises,” Whitner said on the show on Monday.
“The front office members, the coaching staff, and especially the players. And even if Aaron Donald isn’t playing every week, I’ve heard that he’s probably going to play eight games minimum. His presence still matters. The young players can watch how he studies, prepares, communicates, and goes about his business.
.@AaronDonald97 was spotted at the @RamsNFL facility the other day 👀@DonteWhitner thinks this is a major deal for the team pic.twitter.com/AmlX3Tx0Yv
— Good Morning Football (@gmfb) July 13, 2026
“The veterans are reminded what championship-level work looks like. And you know, you have a coach. He can talk about greatness all he wants. But when Aaron Donald walks in that building, that’s greatness in the flesh,” he added.
Of course, the combination of Donald and Garrett would be a match made in heaven. Donald will help break the pocket from the inside, while Garrett bends around the edge from the outside.
Picture this: both these players collapsing the offensive line from the middle and the edge. The worst nightmare for any quarterback, forcing the passer to drop back while struggling to complete the throw.
Considering the two of them would demand double teams, it would also open up the pass rush for talents like Byron Young to thrive.
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Donald played with the Rams for 10 seasons before calling time on March 15, 2024 (when he was still the absolute best in the business). Despite staying retired, he has maintained his physique and fitness.
According to NFL insider Adam Schefter, Donald working out is a positive indication of a potential return. He could very well be in line to suit up. If not as a full-time starter, he could still make those 12 to 15 plays and provide great momentum for the team.
