Aaron Donald, the Los Angeles Rams' recently retired star defensive lineman, is intensifying speculation about a potential return to the NFL. Donald, 35, has been observed working out at the Rams' facility, engaging in drills alongside current defensive linemen Braden Fiske and Desjuan Johnson. Video footage captured Donald navigating agility exercises while wearing Rams gear and training with coach DeWayne Brown.
Johnson, who played with Donald during his final NFL season in 2023, described Donald's current form as concerning for opposing offenses. "It didn’t feel like he missed a beat at all," Johnson told The Athletic. "It feels like he even got a little bit faster, a little bit hungrier in a way."
Donald previously made similar claims about his physical condition leading up to the Rams' 2021 championship season, stating he was becoming quicker, stronger, and better conditioned with age. Johnson's current assessment suggests a continuation of this trend even two years after his initial retirement.
Donald's activities have been officially noted on the NFL transaction wire because he used team equipment during his workouts. He has also been seen training at UCLA in a Rams helmet, and he brought his longtime speed coach, Brown, from Pittsburgh to Los Angeles. While these individual actions could be interpreted as an accomplished retiree staying in shape, their collective nature suggests a preparation for a return to professional football.
The rumors of a comeback have gained traction following the Rams' acquisition of reigning Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett. A potential pairing of Donald and Garrett would create a formidable defensive front, combining six Defensive Player of the Year awards between them.
Fiske, a rookie who joined the Rams shortly after Donald's retirement, did not have the opportunity to play alongside him. Johnson, however, was a teammate and his assessment of Donald's current physical state carries significant weight.
Donald has yet to officially announce a decision regarding his retirement status. Should he choose to return, the Rams would need to navigate roster and contract negotiations, which could present their own set of challenges. In the interim, each public workout is being scrutinized for any indication of his intentions. The consistent use of Rams equipment and training with team personnel, coupled with reports of enhanced speed, has led to intense observation of Donald's activities.