The wait for Aaron Donald's return to the gridiron might stretch a little longer than fans hoped. After coming out of retirement to rejoin the Los Angeles Rams, the superstar defensive tackle is expected to bolster an already fearsome pass rush alongside Myles Garrett. But according to ESPN insider Dan Graziano, Donald's debut could be pushed back to Week 2 or 3.
Speaking on Tuesday's NFL Live, Graziano revealed that Donald is unlikely to suit up for the Rams' season opener against the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Australia. "The Rams aren't going to rule him out in terms of playing Week 1, at least not yet," Graziano said. "I would say, based on everything I've been told, a Week 2 or 3 debut looks more likely than Week 1. But again, it's still on the table."
Even if Donald does take the field on Sept. 10, fans shouldn't expect a full workload. Graziano cautioned that the 35-year-old will likely begin his comeback on a limited snap count. The Rams, who have solid interior defensive depth, are thinking bigger picture. "The goal is to win the Super Bowl, not to max him out in Weeks 1, 2, 3," Graziano added.
Head coach Sean McVay echoed that sentiment on Monday, acknowledging there's "absolutely" a chance Donald sits out the opener. "I wouldn't rule anything out yet," McVay said, per ESPN's Sarah Barshop. "But what I think is really good for us is if he's able to go, great. If not, that's kind of how we've been operating as is. And guys have done an excellent job of being able to do some really cool stuff in the meantime. And so, if he's not ready and that's not what's best for him and for the team, absolutely wouldn't have him playing Australia unnecessarily."
If Donald misses the trip to Australia, his return could come when the Rams host the New York Giants on Monday Night Football on Sept. 21. That would give him an extra week of preparation and a prime-time stage for his comeback.
The Rams' decision to bring Donald back has already sparked plenty of chatter around the league. 49ers general manager John Lynch fired back, insisting his team is "pretty good, too." Meanwhile, Donald's wife, Erica, has playfully reacted to his NFL return, adding a lighthearted touch to the news.
For now, the Rams are preparing for life without Donald in Week 1, a scenario they've already navigated during his absence. The team's depth on the defensive line should help them weather the storm, but there's no denying the impact Donald can have when he's on the field. As the season opener approaches, all eyes will be on Donald's practice participation and any updates from the coaching staff.
Regardless of when he returns, the Rams' ultimate goal remains clear: hoisting the Lombardi Trophy. And with Donald in the fold, they believe they have the pieces to make that a reality.
