There seems to be optimism that the Los Angeles Rams will get a huge piece of their defence back.
Head coach Sean McVay told reporters he doesn’t expect a further update on Aaron Donald until they return to their home facility on Aug. 8, but did say the chances of his return are “trending upward”, per Sarah Barshop of ESPN.
The coach previously said he’s speaking with the 35-year-old Donald during the process of determining whether he’ll return for an 11th NFL season after a 2 1/2-year retirement.
Donald has been a regular visitor to the Rams’ complex ever since he walked away from the team somewhat abruptly in March 2024 following a decade of dominance.
The Rams have repeatedly said they’ll wait indefinitely for Donald to evaluate his fitness and strength as he strongly considers a comeback. Donald’s interest in ending his retirement was apparently sparked by Los Angeles’ acquisition of NFL Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett early last month.
Donald won the AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year award three times, while Garrett has won it in two of the past three seasons. Donald also earned eight All-Pro selections and 10 Pro Bowl selections while leading the Rams’ defence during the team’s renaissance under McVay.
The Rams are considered Super Bowl favourites by oddsmakers.