LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Rams, currently leading their division, do not anticipate that star defensive lineman Aaron Donald will reverse his retirement decision to aid in their playoff ambitions. Head coach Sean McVay has expressed that he would feel inappropriate even bringing up the subject with Donald, who hung up his cleats last March after a brilliant decade-long career.
When asked about the possibility of Donald returning to the team, McVay stated he believes it is highly unlikely. He emphasized the importance of their relationship and expressed discomfort in discussing a return, highlighting the closure Donald felt when deciding to retire. “I have a really special relationship with Aaron,” McVay remarked. “He has contributed so much, and I’d feel it would be disrespectful to even ask him about returning.”
Fans of the Rams have held onto the hope of Donald coming back since he left the game at only 32 years of age while still performing at an elite level. Over ten seasons, Donald earned three AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards and made ten Pro Bowl appearances, integral to the Rams’ victory in the Super Bowl in February 2022. He concluded his career with an impressive franchise record of 111 sacks, exclusively with the Rams in both St. Louis and Los Angeles. Although he has not announced any desire to return, his constant visibility at local sports events, including attending a Rams game, has stirred speculation among supporters.
“I believe he only has positive feelings regarding his career, and I doubt he has any regrets about how he conducted himself,” McVay noted. “He seems content with his current situation and is still in great shape, capable of doing remarkable things should he choose to step back on the field. However, out of respect for him and our rapport, it’s a conversation I wouldn’t initiate.”
Donald’s return this season appears unlikely, as NFL rules state that players on the reserve/retired list cannot rejoin their teams after Week 12. Since he was still under contract at his retirement, the Rams would need to release him before he could be signed, a process that would require him to pass through waivers unclaimed.
Following Donald’s departure, the Rams have worked to reconstruct their defensive line, which has emerged as a strong aspect of an otherwise inconsistent defense. Rising stars such as Kobie Turner and Byron Young, along with rookies Jared Verse and Braden Fiske, have collectively rejuvenated the Rams’ defensive unit, bringing vigor and talent that complements their pass rush and run defense, though none match Donald’s exceptional prowess.
Additionally, McVay confirmed that the team has not engaged in discussions about reuniting with wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr., who was recently released by Miami. Beckham played a pivotal role in the Rams’ Super Bowl win and developed close relationships with McVay and several teammates during his brief tenure in Los Angeles. “That’s not a conversation we’ve had up to this point,” McVay clarified. “I have great respect for him, but it’s not on our agenda right now.”
The receiving corps for the Rams is led by Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp, with significant contributions from Demarcus Robinson and Tutu Atwell. The Rams (8-6) have climbed to the top of the NFC West after winning seven of their last nine games since their bye week, positioning themselves strongly for the playoffs. They are set to face the New York Jets this weekend before returning home for divisional clashes against Arizona (7-7) and Seattle (8-6).
“It’s all still temporary unless we keep pushing forward,” McVay stated regarding their recent success after an initial 1-4 start. “These achievements won’t hold weight if we don’t continue to do our part.”
In other news, McVay mentioned uncertainty around cornerback Cobie Durant’s availability following a bruised lung that kept him sidelined in last Thursday’s game against San Francisco. Durant still needs to clear one final medical check. Moreover, tight end Tyler Higbee, the most accomplished tight end in Rams history, may see limited action if he manages to make his season debut in New York after recovering from a significant knee injury sustained in last January’s playoff loss against Detroit.