Future Hall of Famer Aaron Donald has been a hot topic throughout the NFL offseason, with speculation linking him with a spectacular return to the Los Angeles Rams, just two seasons after retiring as one of the greatest players in his position. The Rams’ trade for reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett has been highlighted as the domino that might lead to Donald’s return.
NFL Insider Stokes Aaron Donald Return Speculation
In his latest article, NFL insider J.L. Canfora was adamant that Donald’s return is indeed imminent and that the defensive tackle is seeking a comeback to play alongside Garrett next season.
“What began as speculation and then became very well-informed buzz is now being viewed as close to a done deal, with Donald wanting to play with Myles Garrett, whom the Rams acquired this offseason, and telling even more people within the Rams organization of how hard he is leaning into ending his retirement,” Canfora wrote.
“There remains no firm timetable for him to formalize his decision, let alone report to the Rams, and they will keep that option open for him as long as he wants. But there is also a growing sense among some in the Rams organization and around the league that Donald will be back with them for a majority of the 2026 season.”
In his illustrious career, Garrett has earned five first-team All-Pro nods and seven Pro Bowl selections, winning two NFL Defensive Player of the Year Awards, and is considered one of the best edge defenders of all time. A potential pairing of Garrett and Donald would be one of the most devastating defensive duos of all time.
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Donald’s Potential Return Elevates Rams to Super Bowl Favorites
During this week’s segment of “Pro Football Talk,” analyst Mike Florio predicted that Donald would make a return to the Rams and that his presence would make them one of the favorites for the Super Bowl next season.
“It sure feels like this is going to happen, or Aaron Donald is pulling a head fake on us, or an eye fake, as the case may be,” Florio said. “So, let’s keep an eye on this, because the Rams are already the favorite to win the NFC and the Super Bowl. If Donald comes back, I mean, that puts the bar as high as it’s been for any team that I can remember in a long time.”
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Before his retirement, Donald earned 10 Pro Bowl nods and eight first-team All-Pro selections. In addition, he won the NFL Defensive Player of the Year Award three times, a record he holds alongside Lawrence Taylor and J.J. Watt.
