Sean McVay: Aaron Donald is putting himself in position to make a decision - NBC Sports

What the report says

NBCSports.com’s Pro Football Talk reports that Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay says the team remains in contact with Aaron Donald as the retired defensive tackle considers whether to play in the 2026 NFL season. McVay addressed the situation at his first press conference of training camp, with Donald not currently on the Rams’ roster but still a major storyline around the team.

According to the report, Donald has been away from football for two years and is weighing a comeback that would allow him to line up with new Rams addition Myles Garrett. McVay said Donald is working through his own evaluation and testing whether his body can handle a return to the demands of an NFL season. The coach indicated Los Angeles would try to accommodate a comeback if Donald decides he wants to resume playing.

The timing remains uncertain. NBCSports.com noted there has been speculation that, if Donald returns, it may not happen by the start of the season. McVay said the team will wait to see how Donald responds to training before determining any next steps or possible dates.

Donald’s decision matters because he is one of the most decorated defensive players in recent NFL history, including three Defensive Player of the Year awards. A return would significantly reshape expectations for a Rams defense already drawing attention because of Garrett’s arrival, but the report makes clear that no final decision has been announced.