Aaron Donald Returns to Rams, Reigniting Super Bowl Chances

The Los Angeles Rams and NFL broadcasts are set for a boost as superstar defensive tackle Aaron Donald has announced his return from retirement for the current season.

Donald, instrumental in the Rams' Super Bowl LVI victory in 2022, officially declared his comeback. The team confirmed the news by releasing a simple, yet impactful, letter on Rams letterhead addressed to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, which stated, "Dear Commissioner Goodell: I’m Back." The letter was signed by Donald.

Even before Donald's announcement, the Rams were considered favorites to win the Super Bowl, which will be held at their home stadium, SoFi Stadium, in 2027. His return to a prominent team in a major media market is also a significant development for networks and streaming services broadcasting NFL games.

Having retired before the 2024 season, the 35-year-old Donald had been contemplating a return earlier this summer. He participated in workouts with head coach Sean McVay in August.

While contract specifics were not immediately released, reports indicate a one-year deal worth $20 million, with potential playoff incentives that could elevate the total value to $30 million. During his 10 seasons with the Rams, Donald established himself as one of the most dominant defensive linemen in NFL history, accumulating 111 sacks, 24 forced fumbles, and seven fumble recoveries.

Donald is one of only three players in NFL history to have been named the Associated Press NFL Defensive Player of the Year three times, achieving this honor in 2017, 2018, and 2020. His potential return to form could create a formidable pass-rushing duo for the Rams, especially after the team acquired reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett on June 1.

Garrett, 30, set a new NFL single-season sack record last year with 23, earning him his second Defensive Player of the Year award. He also led the league with 33 tackles for loss. This makes the Rams the sole team with two active players who have won multiple Defensive Player of the Year awards.

The Rams' Opening Night game this Thursday against NFC West rivals the San Francisco 49ers, airing on Netflix, could potentially feature Donald, although no definitive announcement has been made.