Aaron Donald has decided to come out of retirement and rejoin the Los Angeles Rams, according to ABC7 Los Angeles. The move ends a 2½-year absence from the field and pairs him once again with the team where he spent his entire career.
The Rams made the announcement on Sunday after weeks of talks and training. Donald, now 35, signed a one-year agreement that includes performance incentives valued at a minimum of $20 million.
During his first decade in the league, Donald established himself as one of the top interior linemen of his generation. He earned three AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year honors, ten Pro Bowl nods, eight All-Pro selections and a Super Bowl championship before stepping away in March 2024.
Donald began considering a return this summer once the Rams acquired Myles Garrett through a trade. The two players have accounted for five of the last nine AP Defensive Player of the Year awards, giving Los Angeles a formidable duo on the defensive line.
To prepare for the comeback, Donald spent nearly two months working out at the team's facility and other locations. Coach Sean McVay had indicated for several weeks that a return was likely, though the final choice came after the preseason concluded.
The Rams already held strong offensive talent led by Matthew Stafford. Adding Donald, Garrett and two cornerbacks from Kansas City further equips the defense to match that production heading into the season opener against the 49ers in Australia.
Donald's 111 career sacks stand as the franchise record and rank second among interior linemen in NFL history. His presence is expected to create additional opportunities for younger teammates while he pursues another championship.
This report is based on coverage by ABC7 Los Angeles: https://abc7.com/post/aaron-donald-ends-2-12-year-retirement-returns-los-angeles-rams/19765787/