Former New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees suggested that there is a strong possibility of Aaron Donald returning to the Los Angeles Rams for the upcoming season. Brees shared his views on USA Today Sports' "Sports Seriously" program, stating "absolutely" when asked about the likelihood of Donald's return.
Brees noted that Donald appears to be in good physical shape, based on his social media activity. He also posited that a potential return could involve a reduced role, with Donald playing approximately 20 to 25 snaps per game primarily as a pass rusher.
"He looks like he’s staying in pretty good shape. I’m still pretty scared of him," Brees said of Donald. "For him to sit there and go, ‘Wait a minute, you mean I can come back. I don’t have to play a full game, I can play between 20 to 25 snaps a game, it’s always going to be a pass rush.’"
Another factor Brees believes could draw Donald back is the opportunity to play alongside Myles Garrett, who was acquired by the Rams in a trade this offseason. Brees suggested that such a pairing, combined with the team's Super Bowl aspirations, could be a significant draw for the veteran defensive lineman.
Donald, 35, is widely regarded as one of the most dominant defensive players in NFL history. His ten-year career includes three NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards and a Super Bowl LVI victory with the Rams. He played a crucial role in the Rams' Super Bowl win in 2020, making a critical sack of Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow late in the game.
Brees drew parallels between the Rams' current offseason strategy and their "all-in" approach in 2021, when they acquired players like Von Miller, Odell Beckham Jr., and Eric Weddle. He sees a similar ambition in the current team, particularly with quarterback Matthew Stafford continuing to perform at a high level.
"This feels very similar," Brees commented. "They’ve got Matthew Stafford playing at such a high level, reigning MVP. I think his next three years could be the best years of his career; it’s just a matter of how long he wants to play."
Brees also praised the offensive weapons surrounding Stafford, mentioning Davante Adams and Puka Nacua. He highlighted the team's continued roster improvements, including the acquisitions of cornerbacks Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson, and the significant trade for Garrett.