What former Aaron Donald teammate has texted him about potential return to Rams

Retired offensive tackle and current NFL analyst Andrew Whitworth previously shared Los Angeles Rams locker rooms with defensive superstar Aaron Donald. In June, Whitworth said that he didn't know whether or not Donald would end his retirement to play for a 2026 Rams side that will feature two-time Defensive Player of the Year Award winner Myles Garrett.

During a recent appearance on the "Bleav in Rams" podcast, Whitworth shared an update regarding what he has said to Donald about possibly playing later this year.

Andrew Whitworth "encouraging" Aaron Donald to play for Rams this season

"I’ve tried," Whitworth said about attempting to convince Donald to announce his return, per Josh Buckhalter of Heavy. "I’ve texted him multiple times throughout the summer. I’m on that list of guys encouraging him. I’ve said this before, and it’s not pressure to him." 

Donald reportedly is "thinking very hard about" returning to the Rams. However, a recent update suggested that the 35-year-old "wants to be the best version of himself" and only "wants to go the full season if he comes back." 

Donald reportedly considered retiring after the Rams won Super Bowl LVI in February 2022, and he ultimately called time on his playing career in March 2024. 

There's "no question" Andrew Whitworth would make this decision if he were Aaron Donald

Donald seems to be in tremendous physical shape, but it's unclear if he feels he can be in the "football shape" he allegedly would want to be in by September. Meanwhile, DraftKings Sportsbook listed the Rams on Thursday morning as the overall betting favorites at +550 odds to win Super Bowl LXI. Such information may show why Donald could be convinced to complete a "Last Dance" season with his former club. 

"I’ll say it this way," Whitworth added. "If I was his age, there’s no question I’d be coming back. ...I think it’s interesting." 

Whitworth will turn 45 years old this coming December, and he has seemingly embraced his current football-related career. As for Donald, it's unclear if he will confirm his status for the 2026 season before veteran Rams players report for training camp on July 25.