Aaron Donald Cleared To Play in Rams' Season-Opener

“Rams returning DT Aaron Donald passed his physical today, has been activated to their roster, will participate with team moving forward, and is eligible to play in the regular-season opener vs. the 49ers, per sources,” Schefter said.

Paying homage to NBA legend Michael Jordan’s comeback statement, the Rams’ team account posted a similar letter addressed to NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, signed by Donald, saying “I’m back.”

Donald made his decision official Sunday, agreeing to return as the Rams finalized their 53-man roster ahead of Sunday’s 6 p.m. cutdown deadline. He signed a one-year, $20 million contract with incentives that could push its value to $30 million.

If he plays in the opener, it will be his first NFL action since retiring after the 2023 season, when the Rams lost to the Detroit Lions in the NFC wild-card round.

Donald stayed in shape through retirement, and once the idea of playing again grew serious, his training intensified, with some workouts held at the Rams’ facility. The goal was to suit up as the player who earned eight All-Pro selections and routinely wrecked opposing game plans, not a diminished version he’d come to regret.

A return at that level would be unprecedented for his position. The NFL has seen quarterbacks come back after prolonged absences, such as Michael Vick and Philip Rivers, but never a defensive lineman. Nor has the league seen two talents of this caliber, Donald and edge rusher Myles Garrett, anchoring the same defensive line.

That pairing headlines a team already loaded with talent. Even before Donald’s decision, the Rams tied the NFL record for the most nationally televised games this season, with an offense and defense good enough to make them Super Bowl favorites.

Now, with Donald back, the pressure to win it all only grows, starting Week 1 against the rival 49ers.