Former Los Angeles Rams defensive lineman Aaron Donald completed a formal tryout with the team on Wednesday, according to multiple reports. The workout, which was officially logged on the NFL’s daily transaction wire, was not an evaluation of Donald’s abilities but rather a personal assessment for the 35-year-old to gauge his readiness to return to the NFL.
The Rams have repeatedly stated that Donald would be welcomed back if he chooses to resume his career. Coach Sean McVay indicated last week that any announcement regarding Donald’s potential return would likely come after August 7, the start of the team’s training camp.
What happened in the tryout?
Donald participated in a 45-minute session wearing full gear, including helmet and pads, according to sources cited by Fox News Digital. The workout was arranged at Donald’s request to determine his physical condition and comfort level with returning to professional football. League sources confirmed the session took place, though no public statements have been made about Donald’s performance or his reaction to the workout.
The Rams, currently in training camp at Loyola Marymount University, are scheduled to return to their Woodland Hills facility on Friday. The team’s leadership has emphasized that Donald’s return, if it occurs, would be on his terms.
Why a return now?
Donald retired in 2024 after a Hall of Fame-caliber career, but speculation about a comeback has intensified due to the Rams’ Super Bowl aspirations. The team has added Myles Garrett, who set an NFL single-season sack record last year, to pair with Donald in a revamped defensive line. Reigning MVP Matthew Stafford and star receivers Puka Nacua and Davante Adams further bolster the roster, which fell just short of a championship last season.
If Donald returns, the Rams would be positioned as favorites for Super Bowl LXI, hosted at SoFi Stadium—the same venue where they won in 2022. McVay has described the timeline for any decision as "temporary" but has not provided further clarity beyond the post-August 7 window.
What’s next?
A decision on Donald’s potential return is expected soon, though no official timeline has been confirmed. The Rams’ front office and coaching staff have indicated they will defer to Donald’s assessment of his own readiness. Until then, the NFL and Rams fanbase will await his next move, which could reshape the league’s championship landscape.