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Weddle Urges Donald to Choose Late-Season Return

6/9/2026

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Summary

Aaron Donald's Return Decision

Eric Weddle said Aaron Donald must decide whether to end his 2024 retirement.
Weddle said Donald still has the talent to play but his commitment and fire are the biggest hurdles.
He suggested Donald consider a limited late-season comeback rather than a full 17-game season.
Weddle warned that defensive tackles take contact on nearly every snap, making recovery extremely tough, and that his own six-week return still affects his health.

Summary

Donald Weighs Return

Following Myles Garrett’s acquisition, the Rams have $18 million in cap space, limiting Aaron Donald’s contract to $10 million, below his 2023 $28.5 million, and are weighing a Donald-Garrett tandem’s impact on payroll.
Donald said on Cam Heyward’s podcast he feels complete, has no urge to play, and trained with rookie Jared Verse, showing fitness.
Teammates and coaches urge him to return, expecting he will miss camp but could join for a push.

Summary

Donald Return Option

Head coach Sean McVay mentored Aaron Donald and Myles Garrett, shaping their line roles.
The Rams’ trade for two-time Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett prompted 35-year-old Donald to consider a return.
McVay believes his knowledge of Donald’s interior dominance and Garrett’s edge rush could enable a hybrid scheme.
The Rams say the “door is ajar” for Donald to return mid-season without a full contract when roster needs align.

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Aaron Donald's Return Decision

Eric Weddle said Aaron Donald must decide whether to end his 2024 retirement.
Weddle said Donald still has the talent to play but his commitment and fire are the biggest hurdles.
He suggested Donald consider a limited late-season comeback rather than a full 17-game season.
Weddle warned that defensive tackles take contact on nearly every snap, making recovery extremely tough, and that his own six-week return still affects his health.

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