nypost
The mundane daily NFL transactions wire rarely captures widespread attention, but Wednesday afternoon changed that when the Los Angeles Rams officially recorded Aaron Donald's workout at their Woodland Hills facility as a tryout.
This does not mean Donald has formally declared his return from retirement or signed a contract. In fact, if he were to make a comeback, a tryout would be unnecessary. Nevertheless, this development provides the first tangible proof that Donald is actively exploring a return to the NFL after stepping away following the 2023 season.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the 35-year-old defensive legend opted to wear a helmet during the workout. Although he did not don shoulder pads, he utilized Rams equipment under team supervision, which necessitated his inclusion on the daily NFL transaction report.
Key Analysis
After weeks of speculation, the chatter surrounding Donald's potential return now has a foundation of concrete action. He could still decide against a comeback and retreat into retirement, but the discussions are no longer purely hypothetical. He is actively testing his desire and readiness on the practice field.
Rams head coach Sean McVay confirmed the reports earlier this week, noting that no official decision regarding Donald would be announced until the team concludes its training camp at Loyola Marymount University on Thursday. Donald retired as a three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year, a 10-time Pro Bowler, a Super Bowl champion, and a First-Team All-Pro in his final season.
The Rams, who reached the NFC Championship last season, are set to open the 2026 campaign against the 49ers in Australia on September 10. Whether Wednesday's helmet-wearing workout brings Donald closer to a comeback remains known only to him, but after months of whispers, one thing is clear: he is nearing a decision.
Originally reported by nypost.