Aaron Donald's return feels like only a matter of time (and it could be very close)

The Los Angeles Rams and All-Pro defensive lineman Aaron Donald have shared one of the best relationships the franchise has ever known. But it has not always been smooth sailing. Donald knows his value. In the past, he has employed the tactic of holding out until the team met his asking price.

Will Donald reach an agreement with the Rams to return now that the final preseason game is in the books? If his known all-in attitude is any indication, LA should expect Donald to suit up very soon if he plans to. That's certainly the sentiment of NFL insider Adam Schefter, who has already sounded the Klaxon over Donald's imminent unretirement:

"It certainly seems like it's moving along in that direction," Schefter said last Thursday. "Aaron Donald keeps working out for the Rams, keeps doing drills to get in shape... It certainly feels like he's going to be joining Myles Garrett."

Former Rams tackle Andrew Whitworth echoed those sentiments, citing Donald's willingness to don a helmet and shoulder pads and hit the sled as proof positive that Donald is on track for a comeback.

Aaron Donald's unretirement would change the NFL landscape

Donald's decision on a return may seem strictly a Rams matter, but the news would impact almost the entire NFL landscape. Keep in mind that LA upgraded the run defense in 2025 by signing nose tackle Poona Ford and inside linebacker Nate Landman. Donald wouldn't just be a pass rusher; he'd still be an elite run-stuffer, too.

General manager Les Snead upgraded the pass defense by signing Jaylen Watson in free agency and trading for Myles Garrett and Trent McDuffie.

If Donald returns, this defense will be one of the NFL's best on paper.

Donald's return would force offensive coordinators to burn the midnight oil game-planning who to double team on a defensive front that boasts five elite playmakers. It would also activate the radar of 31 other teams, knowing that Donald's return will surely bump a solid player to the NFL waiver wire.

Veteran Larrell Murchison, sophomore Ty Hamilton, or even rookie Tim Keenan III could be a roster casualty if Donald's return ousts a defensive lineman from the depth chart. Not one would survive waivers long enough to re-sign to LA's practice squad.

Of course, that's a trade any Rams fan would make in a heartbeat. Hopefully the wait won't be much longer.

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