Aaron Donald took another step toward a potential NFL return on Wednesday, Aug. 5.
Donald officially worked out for the Los Angeles Rams, according to the NFL's official transaction wire.
Donald's workout was primarily "to see how he feels personally," according to ProFootballTalk's Myles Simmons
. He wore a helmet during the session and used Rams equipment, which required the team to report it as an official workout, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.Donald last played during the 2023 NFL season with the Rams. He originally called it quits following a 10-year career during which he racked up 111 sacks, eight All-Pro first-team nods and a Super Bowl 56 victory.
However,
Donald has been rumored to be considering a return ahead of the 2026 NFL campaign. He had previously worked out at the Rams' facility, while coach Sean McVay has referenced the possibility of the 35-year-old's comeback on numerous occasions.
Most recently, McVay had told reporters on July 31 that the possibility of Donald returning to the Rams was "trending upwards."
Donald's workout alone does not guarantee he will return to the NFL. He still needs to officially file to rejoin the league, and if he does, the Rams may need to rework his contract to ensure the team remains compliant with the salary cap.
Despite those hurdles, Donald's official workout seems to indicate his interest in returning to the NFL is legitimate. And if he does come out of retirement to play next to the newly acquired Myles Garrett, the Rams would instantly sport one of the most feared pass-rushing combinations in NFL history.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Aaron Donald tested a potential return with Rams with workout at their facility
