The Rams are suddenly looking even nastier on defense, and the biggest reason is a familiar one: Aaron Donald is coming back.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Los Angeles is getting a major boost with Donald’s return, adding another huge name to a defense that already had plenty of momentum heading into 2026. There has been plenty of buzz lately about Donald making his way back onto the field for the first time since 2023.
That would be a major development for Sean McVay’s team, which is trying to rebound after a disappointing finish to the 2025 NFL postseason against the Seattle Seahawks. The Rams still look positioned for another serious NFC push, and Donald’s comeback only raises the ceiling.
The move also fits into an offseason where Los Angeles has been aggressive in loading up. The Rams brought in All-Pro pass rusher Myles Garrett from the Cleveland Browns, then added Trent McDuffie from the Kansas City Chiefs. Jaylon Watson was also brought in, giving the secondary another piece to work with.
Donald, though, is in a different category altogether. He spent exactly 10 years with the Rams, a stretch that began when the franchise was still based in St.
Louis. Across that run, he built a resume that puts him among the most dominant defensive players the league has ever seen, with 10 Pro Bowl appearances to his name.
Now the former first-round pick appears set for another run at a title in Los Angeles. He already won his first Super Bowl with McVay and the Rams in Super Bowl 56, and this comeback points to another push for the top.
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