The Los Angeles Rams would welcome defensive tackle Aaron Donald back “with open arms” if he decides to return to the field in 2026.
The Rams put themselves right back in the Super Bowl mix after trading for pass rusher Myles Garrett. That move immediately sparked a conversation about a possible return for Donald.
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Donald, a three-time Defensive Player of the Year and Super Bowl 56 champion, continues to spend time in Los Angeles, including with USC football, since stepping away from the Rams after the 2023 season.
Could a return be on the horizon? Rams CEO Kevin Demoff and COO Tony Pastoors spoke about Donald during a team event on Thursday, July 23.
“I think we all follow along like you,” Demoff said. “When Aaron Donald raises his hand and said he’s considering coming back … we’re fans as well. He’s one of the most decorated players in NFL history, in franchise history. We don’t have a ring or a Lombardi Trophy or banner if it’s not for Aaron Donald.
“I think Sean (McVay) said it best yesterday: If Aaron wants to return we will wait with open arms, it is his decision, his choice. But there’s not a day that goes by that I don’t wake up refreshing social media, seeing if there’s a post or hoping there’s a text that says ‘You up?’ I think we would all love for Aaron to be here.”
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Highmark Stadium. Buffalo Bills. Opening in 2026.
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Highmark Stadium. Buffalo Bills. Opening in 2026.
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Allegiant Stadium. Las Vegas Raiders. Opened in 2020.
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SoFi Stadium. Los Angeles Chargers and Los Angeles Rams. Opened in 2020.
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Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Atlanta Falcons. Opened in 2017.
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U.S. Bank Stadium. Minnesota Vikings. Opened in 2016.
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Levi’s Stadium. San Francisco 49ers. Opened in 2014.
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MetLife Stadium. New York Giants and New York Jets. Opened in 2010.
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AT&T Stadium. Dallas Cowboys. Opened in 2009.
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State Farm Stadium. Arizona Cardinals. Opened in 2006.
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NRG Stadium. Houston Texans. Opened in 2002.
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Lumen Field. Seattle Seahawks. Opened in 2002.
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Northwest Stadium. Washington Football Team. Opened in 1997.
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Demoff then informed the crowd that Donald wouldn’t be at Thursday’s event, which was met with boos.
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“We want Aaron to go through Aaron’s process and whenever he’s ready, we’ll be ready,” Pastoors said. “Ultimately, I would rather have Aaron Donald when we’re playing actual football games than in July. So let’s just … we’ll all be patient and if it happens, then we’ll be ready.”
When is Rams’ season opener?
The Rams will start the regular season at home against the San Francisco 49ers. The NFC West showdown will take place Thursday, Sept. 10 at 5:35 p.m. PT at SoFi Stadium and will be broadcast on Netflix.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Is Aaron Donald returning to Rams? What team leadership said at jersey reveal event
