The Los Angeles Rams have bolstered their defense with the return of Aaron Donald from retirement, creating what former NFL linebacker Shawne Merriman calls an "insane" defensive front alongside Myles Garrett. This pairing, combined with MVP quarterback Matthew Stafford leading the offense, positions the Rams as significant contenders for the upcoming 2026 NFL season.
Merriman, an All-Pro linebacker during his playing career, described the combination of Donald and Garrett as a "pick-your-poison" scenario for offensive lines. "Who do you want to focus on? Because the other one is going to make plays," Merriman told OutKick. He explained that teams cannot afford to leave either player in a one-on-one matchup without risking significant disruption to their offense.
Donald, a 10-time Pro Bowl selection and eight-time First Team All-Pro, ended his brief retirement to rejoin the Rams, the team he helped win a Super Bowl in 2021. He now teams with Garrett, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year and NFL single-season sack record holder, who was acquired by the Rams in a trade with the Cleveland Browns. This formidable duo is expected to strike fear into opponents throughout the season.
Merriman suggested that playing on the Rams could unlock an additional level for Garrett. He noted that Garrett, unlike in previous seasons where his team might have been trailing and forced to pass more often, will now benefit from a high-powered offense that can build substantial leads. This situation allows pass rushers to "pin their ears back and go" without the same level of strategic consideration.
Regarding Donald, Merriman expressed confidence that the defensive tackle remains an elite player, even if not at his absolute peak. "Aaron Donald is still a top three player at 80% in the NFL, which is scary," Merriman stated. He highlighted Donald's historical impact as a defensive tackle, capable of consistently pressuring the quarterback, and his career 111 sacks.
The Rams are entering the 2026 season with high expectations, fueled by their star-studded roster. Merriman acknowledged that while "super teams" do not always guarantee success, the construction of the Rams on both offense and defense makes them a strong candidate to at least reach the NFC Championship Game.
Donald will not be in uniform for the Rams' season opener in Melbourne, as the team intends to give him more time to ramp up his conditioning before taking the field. Despite this, the Rams are widely considered to be embracing a "Super Bowl or bust" mentality for the upcoming season.