Aaron Donald ends his 2 1/2-year retirement and returns to the Los Angeles Rams

Los Angeles, California (AP) — Former defensive end Aaron Donald has rejoined the Los Angeles Rams, putting an end to his 2 1/2-year retirement. The trade brings him alongside fellow defensive star Myles Garrett on the team's defensive line. Donald, 35, announced his return to football following several weeks of deliberation and extensive training to prepare for his comeback.

Throughout his first decade with the Rams, Donald established himself as one of the premier defensive players in the NFL. He was awarded the AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year three times, earned 10 Pro Bowl selections, eight All-Pro honors, and captured a Super Bowl championship ring before abruptly hanging up his gloves in March 2024.

Donald's return to the Rams injects a formidable force into their already impressive defensive unit, which also recently added cornerbacks Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson. This revamped defense, led by coach Sean McVay, aims to secure the team's second NFL championship under the guidance of quarterback Matthew Stafford, who has been recognized as the NFL's top player.

Donald's decision to rejoin the league resets his eligibility clock for a possible induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but he is more focused on the opportunity to secure another league title alongside Garrett and the rising stars Byron Young, Kobie Turner, and Braden Fiske on a defense that is expected to give opponents a tough challenge.