One of the NFL’s all-time greats makes a return to the field on Monday night. Aaron Donald will officially be back with the Los Angeles Rams, suiting up on Sean McVay’s defensive line years after choosing to step away from football in 2023. The three-time Defensive Player of the Year’s path back to the Rams stemmed from the team’s offseason swing for Myles Garrett, a move that ultimately fell through and paved the way for Donald’s surprising comeback.
His return gives the Rams a significant reinforcement as they try to recover from a 27-7 season-opening loss to the 49ers in Australia. That remains to be seen, but just in terms of getting back into the swing of things after being away for so long. Nevertheless, this remains a process. At 35 years old, Donald’s workload remains to be seen, but considering the D-line depth that the Rams boast, he could be eased in in his initial appearance. The team can afford to manage his snaps, allowing him to shake off rust while preserving his energy for critical moments.
Even in a limited role, Donald’s impact could be immediate. Pressure in a critical passing situation or penetration that disrupts an early-down run could help change a possession. His presence alone demands attention from opposing offenses, potentially freeing up teammates along the defensive front. Monday night will begin answering the more important question: what Donald can still deliver and how much his return can help a defense searching for answers. And why is that important to the Rams? Because after a disappointing start, they need every spark they can get to turn their season around.
Shimanta Das