Full Breakdown
Cooper Kupp Blocks Aaron Donald’s Possible Return After Rams Acquire Myles Garrett
6/4/2026, 4:51:24 AM
Core Event: Kupp’s Text to Donald
During an appearance on *The Rich Eisen Show*, Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Cooper Kupp said he had personally texted former teammate Aaron Donald to tell him he “is not allowed” to come out of retirement now that the Los Angeles Rams have added edge rusher Myles Garrett. Kupp emphasized that his warning was final and that he was “not worried” because Donald would respect it.
Background & Context: Donald’s Retirement and the Garrett Trade
Aaron Donald retired after the 2023 season, finishing with 53 tackles and eight sacks that year and a career total of 534 tackles, 111 sacks, three Defensive Player-of-the-Year awards and ten Pro-Bowl selections. In early 2024 the Rams completed a blockbuster trade with the Cleveland Browns, sending Jared Verse to Cleveland in exchange for two-time Defensive Player-of-the-Year Myles Garrett. The move was framed as a push to improve the Rams’ Super Bowl odds.
Key Figures & Groups
- Aaron Donald – former Rams defensive tackle, retired 2023, rumored to consider unretirement.
- Cooper Kupp – Seahawks wide receiver, former Rams teammate (2017-2023).
- Myles Garrett – Cleveland Browns defensive end, acquired by the Rams.
- Sean McVay – Rams head coach, open to Donald’s return.
- Les Snead – Rams general manager, advocating a “let him sleep on it” approach.
Data & Statistics
- Donald’s Rams tenure: 10 seasons, 534 tackles, 111 sacks (third in franchise history).
- Garrett’s career: two Defensive Player-of-the-Year awards (specific stats not provided).
- Donald recorded 70 tackles and 15.5 sacks in 18 games against the Seahawks.
- The Rams’ acquisition of Garrett is projected to make them “clear favorites” in betting odds for the Super Bowl.
Official Statements & Responses
Kupp reiterated his personal prohibition, saying he had already “nipped it in the bud.” Donald, speaking to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, admitted he was “flirting with the idea” of returning, citing the “Helluva an opportunity with the Super Bowl in SoFi Stadium.” Coach McVay confirmed the team has spoken with Donald about a possible comeback, while GM Snead suggested the best strategy is to let Donald continue working out and decide on his own.
Criticism & Opposition
Kupp’s stance represents internal opposition to Donald’s potential return, contrasting with the Rams’ leadership, which appears open to the idea. The divergent viewpoints highlight a tension between personal loyalty among former teammates and the organization’s competitive ambitions.
Why It Matters / Impact
A Donald-Garrett pass-rush tandem would dramatically increase the Rams’ defensive threat to the Seahawks, a key NFC West rival. Kupp’s warning serves both as a personal deterrent and a broader signal to Seahawks players that the division race will intensify.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on Donald’s level of commitment: Kupp asserts the decision is settled, while Donald’s own comments indicate he is still weighing the option. No definitive statement from Donald confirming a final decision has been reported.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Kupp said, “I already texted him and told him that he’s not allowed, so we’re good…” — Cooper Kupp, wide receiver, Seattle Seahawks
- “Helluva an opportunity with the Super Bowl in [SoFi Stadium] this year. If I can find the fire, it's a possibility.” — Aaron Donald, former Rams defensive tackle (to Jordan Schultz)
- “the opportunity to be able to bring him on board.” — Sean McVay, head coach, Los Angeles Rams
- “Best strategy is to let him continue working out... let him sleep on it.” — Les Snead, general manager, Los Angeles Rams
- “Whoever it is we are going to have to line up against, they’re going to be good.” — Cooper Kupp, Seattle Seahawks
What’s Next
The Rams will monitor Donald’s workout progress while finalizing their roster around Garrett. The Seahawks, led by Kupp’s leadership, will prepare for a potentially stronger Rams squad as the NFC West race heads toward the regular-season finale.
