Aaron Donald is expected to make his return to NFL action Monday night when the Los Angeles Rams host the New York Giants, giving the club a major defensive reinforcement after its opening-week loss.
Donald told reporters Friday that he intends to play in the Rams’ home opener. The veteran defensive tackle did not accompany Los Angeles to Melbourne, Australia, for the season-opening game against the San Francisco 49ers.
Quick facts
- Aaron Donald plans to play Monday night against the Giants.
- The Rams opened the season with a 27-7 loss to the 49ers in Melbourne.
- Myles Garrett is on injured reserve after knee surgery.
- Donald retired following the 2023 season before formally rejoining Los Angeles on Aug. 30.
Los Angeles was without both Donald and Garrett in the 49ers game. Garrett, acquired in a blockbuster trade on June 1, suffered a knee injury that led to surgery and an injured reserve designation.
The Rams’ depleted defense was overwhelmed in the 27-7 defeat. Donald remained in Southern California rather than making the international trip, using the time to continue building toward his first game since his retirement.
Donald spent the summer considering a comeback after the Garrett trade reshaped the Rams’ defensive front. He did not make his return official until Aug. 30, leaving a relatively short preparation period before the regular season.
Rather than rush into the Australia opener, Donald prioritized his conditioning and game readiness. The additional practice time now appears to have put him in position to return at the Rams’ home stadium, where he spent his previous NFL career.
Monday’s game against New York will be Donald’s first NFL appearance since the end of the 2023 season, provided he follows through on the plan outlined Friday.
