Rams' Sean McVay provides massive Aaron Donald update

Los Angeles Rams coach Sean McVay. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Rams' Sean McVay provides massive Aaron Donald update

By Andrew Wright | Last updated Aug 1, 2026 9:03 AM ET

The Los Angeles Rams are entering the 2026 NFL season as the odds-on favorite to win the Super Bowl.

Even with the outstanding roster currently assembled, Los Angeles is still awaiting the possible return of one of the best defensive linemen of all-time in Aaron Donald.

Speculation surrounding Donald's return from retirement has continued to grow, and an update on that possibility was given by head coach Sean McVay on Friday.

A decision won't happen until after training camp

McVay spoke to media members Friday night and provided an update on the status of Donald and his potential return.

According to ESPN reporter Sarah Barshop, McVay doesn't expect a decision to be made until the team returns from training camp. McVay does believe, though, that if an arrow could represent the possibility, then it would be "trending up."

Sean McVay said he doesn’t expect there to be an update on Aaron Donald’s return until the Rams get to Woodland Hills. McVay did say that if there’s an arrow, “it’s trending upward.”
— Sarah Barshop (@sarahbarshop) August 1, 2026

Who could beat the Rams if Aaron Donald returns?

Los Angeles already made the trade of the offseason in acquiring superstar defensive end Myles Garrett. The Rams have also added cornerbacks Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson to the back end of their defense.

Along with the additions on defense, Los Angeles will have another year of 2025 MVP Matthew Stafford with Puka Nacua and Davante Adams both back at receiver this season.

Not that the Rams need any more help being considered the best team in the NFL, but there would be no argument to that if Donald decides to unretire and make one more run at another Super Bowl.

Andrew Wright

Andrew "Dew" Wright graduated from Charleston Southern University with a degree in Communication Studies. He is a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Washington Commanders fan.

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