Aaron Donald took a significant step toward a potential return to the NFL by participating in an official workout with the Los Angeles Rams on Wednesday. The session at the team's facility in Woodland Hills was officially reported on the NFL's daily transactions wire as a "Tryout," providing the first concrete evidence of his potential comeback.
While Donald has not officially announced his retirement is over or signed a contract, the workout involved him putting on a helmet and using Rams equipment under team supervision. This action triggered the league's requirement to be listed on the transactions report. Donald did not wear shoulder pads during the session, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
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The official report comes after weeks of speculation surrounding the future Hall of Famer's potential return. Donald, 35, walked away from the sport following the 2023 season, retiring as a three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year, 10-time Pro Bowler, Super Bowl champion, and First-Team All-Pro. His potential absence was felt as the Rams reached the NFC Championship game last season.
Rams coach Sean McVay confirmed the workout this week, stating that an official announcement regarding Donald will not be made until the team concludes its training camp. The Rams are scheduled to open their 2026 campaign against the 49ers in Australia on September 10.
Donald's participation in the workout signifies a move from abstract conversations about a comeback to tangible evidence on the practice field. Whether this session will ultimately lead to a return to the game remains to be seen, but it indicates that Donald is actively exploring his passion for football once again.