Aaron Donald’s 2026 workout footage has 31 NFL teams nervous as Rams comeback rumors suddenly feel very real | NFL News
Aaron Donald’s workout at the Los Angeles Rams facility has made his potential 2026 return harder to dismiss. The retired defensive tackle worked with Rams linemen Braden Fiske and Desjuan Johnson, looking sharp enough to fuel another wave of comeback talk. Donald has not played since the 2023 season, but the 35-year-old remains in strong physical shape. The Rams have also acquired reigning Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett, giving Donald a reason to reconsider retirement and a team that could ease his role.
Why is Aaron Donald’s 2026 workout making NFL teams nervous?
The footage matters because Aaron Donald did not look like someone just keeping fit. He moved through drills with Rams defensive tackles and appeared comfortable with the pace. That does not prove he can handle an NFL season, but it answers one key question: his body still appears capable of football work.Donald also worked out with the Rams for 45 minutes on August 5, a session officially logged as a tryout. Reuters reported that the workout could signal he is seriously considering ending his retirement. Rams coach Sean McVay called it the “best tryout we’ve ever had.”“Someone might need to remind AD that he retired. Aaron Donald’s footwork in 2023 vs. 2026. Three years later… do you notice a drop-off?” said one fan after sharing a 2023 to 2026 comparison video.“And people are saying there might be a drop off in his performance,” said one fan.“He’s cooking with gas,” said another fan impressed by Donald’s current skills.Not everyone expects his old level. “Definitely a drop off. Still would be an impactful player, but obviously not Hall of Fame-level prime,” said a more realistic fan.Could Aaron Donald still make a difference alongside Myles Garrett?Donald does not need to return as the player who dominated offenses for a decade. Garrett’s presence could change what is asked of him.Garrett gives the Rams a premier edge threat, while Donald could attack from the interior in shorter bursts. That would allow Los Angeles to manage his snaps instead of asking a 35-year-old defensive tackle to carry the workload.Donald retired after three Defensive Player of the Year awards and a Super Bowl. Garrett arrived as the reigning DPOY. Together, they could give the Rams two elite defenders without asking Donald to carry the front.One decision remains with Donald: whether he actually wants another season. Being fit enough to play is one thing. Committing to the grind of an NFL schedule is another.For the Rams, the workout changes the conversation. He is putting himself through football work at the team facility, and that makes a return feel closer than it did weeks ago.
