Aaron Donald has taken his workouts from the gym to the practice field recently, ramping up his training regimen as he considers a return to the NFL. The 10-time Pro Bowler was seen working out at the Rams’ facility in the last couple of weeks, and then went through an official “tryout”with the team on Tuesday.
Now, he’s hitting the field at a nearby campus. Donald was spotted training at UCLA on Friday, notably wearing a Rams helmet while hitting a blocking sled. This is obviously different than him lifting weights at home because it’s clear he’s trying to get in football shape now, an indication that he’s strongly considering coming out of retirement.
#99 Looks like he’s getting prepared for something guys! 😬🤘 #ramshouse pic.twitter.com/txalhaAioG
— Poko (@Iampoko_t) August 7, 2026
Not only did Donald work out at UCLA, but he also posed for pictures with some young fans. One fan asked him, "Are you unretiring? Are you going back to the Rams?"
Donald replied, "I don't know yet, we're going to see," with a big smile and laugh.
Caught Aaron Donald @ UCLA training today this gives me a feeling he is definitely coming back. My lil nephews asked the question. Let’s go!! @AaronDonald97 #ramshouse #nfl pic.twitter.com/8sD0K4YVln
— Poko (@Iampoko_t) August 7, 2026
The Rams could have the league's best defense if Donald comes back, pairing him with two-time Defensive Player of the Year, Myles Garrett. It seems more likely than not that he'll be back, but no decision has been made yet.
This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Look: Aaron Donald in a Rams helmet training at UCLA
