Despite widespread speculation about Aaron Donald's potential return to the Los Angeles Rams, crucial financial discussions between the player and the team have not yet taken place. The Rams have been actively trying to persuade Donald to come out of retirement this summer, but the specifics of a contract remain a significant hurdle.
Peter Schrager, an analyst for ESPN, suggested that Donald might require more than just confidence in his physical condition to commit to a return. He indicated that the Rams need to demonstrate the extent of their desire for him to rejoin the team, and this must include financial terms. "There has to also be this feeling that the Rams are welcoming him in because the numbers have to make sense. We’re not even at the numbers yet," Schrager stated on "The Pat McAfee Show." With the Rams set to depart for Australia approximately 10 days before their season opener on September 10, the lack of financial agreement is a notable concern.
Donald, who retired before the final season of his three-year, $95 million contract, is expected to command top dollar if he decides to play again. There has been little indication that a comeback would involve a significant pay cut. If Donald believes he can still perform at the level that earned him 10 consecutive Pro Bowl selections and eight sacks in his last season, the Rams would likely need to offer a contract reflecting that value. Coming out of retirement at age 35 would mean enduring another NFL season's physical toll after having previously retired on his own terms. Reports suggest Donald left approximately $30 million on the table when he initially retired, and while a direct match is not guaranteed, a lucrative one-year deal with substantial guarantees, bonuses, or incentives could be necessary to make a return appealing.
The approaching deadline adds pressure to these negotiations. Los Angeles is mere days away from traveling to Australia for their season opener against the San Francisco 49ers. Should Donald decide to play another season, the Rams would still need to finalize contract terms, structure the agreement, and assess his readiness for competitive play. Ultimately, Donald is still evaluating his ability to perform at his previous elite level, and if he determines he can, the Rams may need to reflect that confidence financially.