Written by Matt Brown
📸 @LARAMS
The Los Angeles Rams have announced that Aaron Donald is returning to the NFL after two years of retirement.
The multi-time Defensive Player of the Year returns to L.A. as the Rams load up for a major Super Bowl push. According to NFL insiders Adam Schefter and Ian Rapoport, the 35-year-old is signing a one-year deal worth $20 million, which could reach $30 million with playoff-based incentives.
A potential return seemed unlikely earlier this offseason when the franchise executed a blockbuster trade with the Cleveland Browns for Myles Garrett back in June. Garrett won his second Defensive Player of the Year award last season after setting a single-season record with 23 sacks.
Head coach Sean McVay consistently addressed rumors of Donald's potential comeback, always stressing that the decision rested entirely with the player. Following successful workouts and training sessions, "AD" is officially rejoining the franchise he helped lead to a Super Bowl victory in 2022.
The Rams now feature a terrifying defensive front as they aim to reach the Super Bowl, which will take place at their home venue, SoFi Stadium. Donald and Garrett boast a combined 17 Pro Bowl selections and 5 Defensive Player of the Year awards, bringing unmatched elite experience to the line.
Donald will also look to add to his 111 career sacks—a franchise record that ranks 33rd in NFL history. He currently trails Garrett by 14.5 sacks, as his new teammate sits tied for 20th all-time with 125.5 sacks through nine seasons.
On the other side of the ball, the Rams feature reigning MVP Matthew Stafford, who signed an extension to remain at the helm of the NFL's top-ranked offense.
The pressure is on for the Rams, who enter the season as heavy title favorites. Their journey begins next month with a tough test against their divisional rivals, the San Francisco 49ers, in Australia.
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