Donald weighs return to NFL after Rams secure Garrett

Former Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald has indicated he is considering a return to the NFL following the team’s recent trade for defensive end Myles Garrett. Donald, who officially retired in 2024 after rebuffing previous inquiries from the organisation regarding a comeback, told ESPN’s Pat McAfee that the move has prompted him to re-evaluate his career status.

Speaking on the Pat McAfee Show, Donald sent a text message stating that the acquisition of Garrett had “got me thinking” about returning to the field. The three-time Defensive Player of the Year clarified that while the news has sparked interest, he is not yet committed to a return. Instead, he intends to test his physical condition to determine if he retains the competitive drive required to perform at a high level.

At 35 years old, Donald emphasised that he needs to assess his body’s readiness before making any formal decisions. This evaluation comes as the Rams approach the start of training camp in two months. The team is also preparing for their Week 1 match in Australia, a fixture that adds an international dimension to the squad’s upcoming schedule.

Donald’s potential return would significantly alter the value of the Garrett trade, placing two elite defensive linemen on the same roster. In his final season before retirement, Donald was named a first-team All-Pro for the eighth time and recorded eight sacks, maintaining a high standard of performance despite his age.

The former tackle has recently shared workout videos on social media with captions hinting at a comeback, though such activity has been ongoing for some time. However, the recent trade for Garrett appears to be the specific catalyst for his current reconsideration. It remains unclear whether Donald will ultimately decide to un-retire, as he is currently in the early stages of physical assessment.