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Ram fans can only believe Aaron Donald's return is inching closer by the day

Los Angeles Rams defensive end Aaron Donald.
Los Angeles Rams defensive end Aaron Donald. | USA TODAY Sports

Have you heard the one about Los Angeles Rams retired All-Pro Aaron Donald working out for the team last week? If you haven't, you haven't been paying attention. If you have, you may already be saturated with the rumors.

Which continue to heat up. Clues continue falling into place. And one of the biggest stories of this offseason continues to unfold.

What actually happened is not in dispute: Donald worked out at LA's facility. But the event invites myriad interpretations. Amid the feverish hype, how can fans keep one foot on the ground and recent events in perspective? Think of it this way: everything that needs to happen for Donald's unretirement is happening.

Donald's workout was one small step forward, as he continues measure himself against his own standards, expectations, and requirements. How did it go? While no formal report has surfaced, Donald's physique and fitness leave little doubt that he passed with flying colors.

The true test, though, will be how he views his own performance.

Aaron Donald reunion would be every Rams fan's dream

Will it happen? All evidence overwhelmingly suggests LA will welcome back its former star with open arms. The real question is whether Donald will ultimately decide to unretire.

It's tough to ignore the clues so far. Donald added substance to the speculation by working out at the Rams' facility. Actions speak louder than words, and Donald is acting like a guy trying to reinstate his career. The rumors are no longer wisps of smoke. There are tongues of flame starting to burn.

Fans have every reason to buy into the hype. Throughout Donald's career, the Horns struggled to match him with a complementary edge rusher. Trading for Myles Garrett this offseason set the stage for such a partnership.

Donald is not returning to unfamiliar faces. Both edge rusher Byron Young and defensive lineman Kobie Turner played outstanding football in their rookie seasons when lined up next to Donald. They're still here.

Meanwhile, LA has added nose tackle Poona Ford, one of the best run stuffers in the league. Donald wouldn't have to do it all himself this time.

The Rams had a dominant defense as soon as they swiped cornerbacks Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson from Kansas City. But Donald brings a legacy of excellence that would hep carry the group through the challenges of a 17-game season.

Working out for the team may be a small step for Aaron Donald and the Rams, but it's nitro fuel for fans already excited about the 2026 season and the possibility of witnessing Chris Shula's dream defense. This is going to be good.

And as always, thanks for reading.

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