Aaron Donald Completes Second Rams Workout Following Preseason Opener

Retired All-Pro Aaron Donald participated in a Saturday workout at the Rams' Woodland Hills facility, his second session of the current training camp.

Aaron Donald participated in a workout for the Los Angeles Rams on Saturday, marking his second session with the team during this training camp. The NFL’s transaction report officially listed the tryout on Sunday, which took place at the franchise's Woodland Hills facility. This activity occurred on the same night the Rams played their preseason opener against the Chiefs in Kansas City. Donald, a former All-Pro defensive tackle, is currently utilizing these sessions to determine if he will officially come out of retirement after ending his 10-year career in March 2024.

Head coach Sean McVay addressed the situation following the Saturday night game in Missouri, stating that the three-time Defensive Player of the Year has earned the right to have clarity on his own timeline. The coach emphasized that the organization is not imposing an invisible deadline on the process. While McVay expressed hope for a resolution sooner rather than later, he noted that the team is not yet at the point where a definitive yes or no has been established. The Rams staff intends to respect the veteran's decision-making period as he evaluates his physical standing and desire to return to professional competition.

Training Camp Progression and Staff Involvement

Prior to the Saturday session at Woodland Hills, Donald appeared on the league transaction report in early August. That initial workout was conducted at Loyola Marymount University during a scheduled day off for the rest of the roster. During that earlier session, Donald worked directly with defensive line coach Giff Smith. The evaluation also included senior vice president of sports medicine and performance Reggie Scott, alongside Justin Lovett, the team’s senior director of strength and conditioning. Following that specific August workout, McVay described the retired lineman’s physical condition as outstanding.

Roster Changes and Return Catalysts

The internal discussions regarding a potential return for the 10-year veteran began in early June. This shift in perspective followed a significant roster move in which Los Angeles traded for Myles Garrett, the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year. Donald spent his entire professional tenure with the Rams organization before his initial departure five months ago. The presence of Garrett on the defensive front is cited as the primary factor that led Donald to begin considering the option of rejoining the active roster for the upcoming season.

Coaching Staff Perspectives on Timing

Sean McVay has remained firm in his stance that he will not publicly push for a specific date regarding Donald's final choice. The coach noted that he wishes to avoid setting a schedule that might eventually require a delay if unforeseen circumstances arise. McVay believes that the clarity Donald seeks is approaching, though he refrained from providing a specific window for an announcement. The Rams continue to monitor the situation as the retired tackle works through his personal evaluation process at team facilities. The defensive tackle's history with the club spans a full decade of service prior to this summer's workout series.