“It’s Go Time”: Aaron Donald’s Potential NFL Return Has Reportedly Reached Boiling Point

Aaron Donald announced his retirement from the NFL on March 15, 2024, after 10 seasons with the Los Angeles Rams. The three-time Defensive Player of the Year retired at age 32 after winning a Super Bowl and earning 10 Pro Bowl selections.

Now, more than two years later, Donald is considering a return. He has been working out, and the Rams are interested in bringing him back. While his comeback remains uncertain ahead of the 2026 NFL season, it seems the decision will be made sooner rather than later.

Adam Schefter Still Has Doubts About Aaron Donald’s Return

Aaron Donald has been working out with the Rams but that does not mean he has decided to return to the NFL. The former Rams star is now 35 and has been away from the game for more than two years. Coming back after that much time would not be easy, especially at defensive tackle, where players have to deal with heavy contact on almost every play.

For Donald, the biggest question is whether he wants to go through another full NFL season. He retired in 2024 after 10 seasons, saying he felt it was time for the next chapter of his life. That is why NFL insider Adam Schefter remains unsure about a comeback.

Speaking on ESPN’s The Pat McAfee Show, Schefter said, “These people know it’s go time. Like two and a half weeks, time to start getting ready, which, again, makes me wonder what’s going through the mind of one Aaron Donald right now as we get closer to the regular season.”

He also had more to say about Donald’s physical condition. “I would think that he’s probably getting close to making a decision at some point here. ‘Cause either you’re gonna do it or you’re not gonna do it. We’re at the point now where, like, you’re coming back or you’re not coming back. Does your body feel like it can handle it, or does your body feel like it can’t handle it? What are we doing here? One way or the other, right?” Schefter asked.

“We’re at the point now like, are you coming back, or you’re not coming back?”@AdamSchefter still questions if Aaron Donald is actually going come back to football

(via @PatMcAfeeShow) pic.twitter.com/pd7DhjqVX4

— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) August 27, 2026

Rams coach Sean McVay has also made it clear that Donald is not being pushed into making a decision. The team remains interested, but the final call is Donald’s.

If Donald returns, he would instantly strengthen the Rams’ pass rush and add experience to a defensive front that could benefit from another elite playmaker.

Aaron Donald Will Be Expected to Replicate His Past Success

As the 2026 season gets closer, Donald’s future is becoming a bigger talking point around the league. His career numbers show why his next move is getting so much attention. In 10 seasons, he recorded 111 sacks, 543 tackles, 176 tackles for loss and 24 forced fumbles.

A return would mean more than simply stepping back onto the field. Donald would have to adjust to the speed and physical demands of the NFL after more than two years away. He would also need to decide whether he is ready for the daily routine of practices, games and recovery that comes with another season.

At this point, there is still no definite answer about what Donald will do. The decision could come down to how he feels physically and whether he believes another season is worth it. Whatever he decides, his numbers already tell the story of what he achieved during his time in the NFL.

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