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The Los Angeles Rams had a heck of an offseason, adding the NFL’s reigning Defensive Player of the Year by trading for Myles Garrett. That blockbuster trade set in motion a potential reunion with Aaron Donald, who hasn’t played an NFL snap since the end of the 2023 season. That wait is now over. According to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network, Donald has officially come out of retirement to negotiate a one-year, $20 million contract with the Rams. The 35-year-old can make up to $30 million, counting playoff incentives, with his new deal. Donald had long been expressing interest in potentially coming out of retirement, dating back to when Garrett landed with the team via trade in June. He had been taking steps toward a comeback ever since, making appearances at the Rams’ facility and getting spirited workouts in along the way. He still managed to record 53 tackles (16 for loss), eight sacks, and three pass deflections in what had been his final season in 2023. Now he’ll look to build upon the 111 career sacks he’s amassed. He ranks 45th on the NFL’s unofficial career sack leaders list. While there’s some question as to what type of game shape the future Hall of Famer is in after spending two full seasons away from the game, he’s been regarded as one of the best physical specimens in the sport. If anyone can get the job done at a high level years after walking away at the top of his game, it may be Donald. The best part is he’ll be able to quickly re-immerse himself back into the culture built by coach Sean McVay in Los Angeles. This team is ready to win now, and Donald, an eight-time First-Team All-Pro, is ready to give them everything he’s got. Related: 2026 NFL Defense Rankings: Evaluating All 32 Teams, Worst and Best Defenses Entering Regular Season