Aaron Donald Rams workout triggers NFL report

Aaron Donald Rams workout explained

Aaron Donald (DT, retired, last with Los Angeles Rams) worked out at the Rams practice facility on July 10, and the session triggered an official NFL wire report because he used team equipment. Per ESPN's Adam Schefter, Donald specifically wanted to wear a football helmet during the session. He did not put on pads, but using the Rams' gear at their facility during training camp was enough to require the team to notify the league.

Schefter described Donald's reasoning: he wanted to go to the facility, work out, and see how his body reacted to being back on a football field in equipment. It was a personal test, not a commitment.

Reporter Michael J. Babcock noted on X that Donald went through several drills over roughly an hour and looked gassed walking off the field.

Where a comeback stands right now

Donald, 35, retired after the 2023 season. He told The Pat McAfee Show last month that the Rams' trade for Myles Garrett got him thinking about a return, but said he would need to feel that fire again. Friday's session at the Rams facility was the first concrete step toward testing that.

No signing has taken place. The next step, per reporting, is evaluating how his body responded to the workout. If positively, a decision could come before the Rams formally open training camp.

What this means for your roster

In standard redraft and PPR formats, Donald's potential return changes nothing. Defensive tackles are not relevant in those leagues. In IDP formats, Donald would be a name to monitor on the waiver wire if a signing actually happens. Until there is a contract, there is nothing to act on.