A trend that shows why Aaron Donald should still dominate for the Rams

Aaron Donald's return to the Los Angeles Rams has fans and analysts wondering if he can still dominate as the defensive player he once was. Some question whether he will be at his prime after two years away from the game, but there is one factor working in his favor: his position as an interior defensive lineman. Generally, these players tend to age more gracefully than others, and it appears Donald is already a "freak" in his own right.

In 2025, only two interior defensive linemen 35 years old or older played an NFL game. One was 36-year-old Cameron Heyward, a standout defensive tackle for the Pittsburgh Steelers, and the other was 35-year-old John Jenkins, a steady presence at the position for the Baltimore Ravens. Both players led their respective teams to success, making them examples of older linemen maintaining their impact.

Looking back further, other examples of aging defenders include 2018's Buffalo Bills legend Kyle Williams, a Pro Bowler at 35, and 2009's Carolina Panthers' Hollis Thomas, who contributed valuable snaps for his team at the same age. These players prove that age doesn't necessarily mean the end of a productive career for defensive linemen.

The case for Aaron Donald being a strong force for the Rams is further strengthened by his genetic gifts and unique skillset. While it's unclear how close he will be to his prime when he returns, the evidence suggests he still has a chance to be a game-wrecker, even if he's not at his absolute best. Fans can look forward to seeing how Aaron Donald performs on the field during his Rams debut.