Donald Ends Retirement to Rejoin Rams for 2026 Campaign
Aaron Donald is coming out of retirement to play for the Los Angeles Rams in 2026. He signed a one-year deal worth up to $30 million with incentives. Donald will team up with Myles Garrett, who was acquired via trade earlier this year.
Donald, 35, spent roughly three months training before committing to the Rams for the 2026 season. His return follows Los Angeles's June trade that sent Jared Verse and three draft picks to Cleveland for Myles Garrett, who set the NFL single-season sack record with 23 in 2025. Donald's career totals include 111 sacks across ten seasons, with a league-leading 20.5 in 2018, plus three Defensive Player of the Year awards and a Super Bowl title. The one-year deal reportedly carries up to $30 million with incentives, and he had worked out with the team multiple times in August before finalizing his decision.
This reunion could reshape NFC title contention and boost fan engagement, particularly with the Super Bowl set for SoFi Stadium. The pairing of two elite pass-rushers may raise expectations for the Rams' defense and draw increased media attention, ticket demand, and merchandise sales. For the league, a marquee comeback at age 35 could spark broader discussion about player longevity and retirement decisions, while younger defensive linemen may gain a high-profile mentor in Donald.