Aaron Donald Misses Monday Practice; Week 1 Status Against 49ers Uncertain

Defensive tackle Aaron Donald sat out Monday's practice following his recent one-year, $20 million contract agreement with the Los Angeles Rams.

LOS ANGELES -- Defensive tackle Aaron Donald did not participate in the Los Angeles Rams' practice on Monday, August 31, 2026. This absence follows the 35-year-old’s agreement on Sunday to a one-year, $20 million contract that includes playoff incentives capable of increasing the total value to $30 million. Head coach Sean McVay characterized the missed session as part of a pre-determined plan for the veteran, who spent the previous two years in retirement after initially stepping away from the NFL in March 2024.

McVay has declined to establish a definitive timeline for Donald’s return to game action. The Rams are scheduled to open their season on September 10 against the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Australia. While the team has not made a final decision, McVay acknowledged a scenario exists where the three-time Defensive Player of the Year does not travel for the international opener. The coach noted that the team would not have Donald play in Australia unnecessarily if he is not physically ready.

Practice Schedule and Ramp-Up Plan

During his first day back with the team on Sunday, Donald limited his participation to individual drills. By Monday, the team moved his workload to off-field, indoor activities to pull back on his physical exertion. McVay described the situation as unique, noting that the team is taking a day-by-day approach to his integration. The Rams have yet to involve Donald in 11-on-11 football settings, which McVay cited as a necessary step before determining the tackle's specific role on the defensive line.

Internal discussions regarding Donald's usage remain ongoing. The coaching staff is prioritizing his feedback on his physical condition to guide his progression. In his absence, other members of the defensive unit have been operating in the roles they established throughout the offseason. McVay expressed confidence in the current group's performance while the team determines how to maximize Donald alongside the existing roster.

Career Statistics and Historical Context

Donald returns to the NFL with a resume that includes 10 Pro Bowl selections and eight first-team All-Pro honors. Over 10 seasons, he recorded 111 career sacks, a total that ranks second all-time among primary defensive tackles since individual sacks were first tracked in 1982. He trails only John Randle, who holds the record for the position with 137.5 sacks. Additionally, Donald was named the 2014 Defensive Rookie of the Year.

The current one-year deal was reported by Adam Schefter and Ian Rapoport, marking the end of a two-year hiatus for the interior pass rusher. As the Rams prepare for the Sept. 10 matchup against San Francisco, the focus remains on Donald's conditioning and his ability to transition from individual work to full-team drills. The team continues to evaluate his status daily to ensure the ramp-up process aligns with what is best for both the player and the organization.