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Rams Coach Signals Aaron Donald’s Return Trending Upward

8/1/2026

31 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Sean McVay said Aaron Donald’s return is “trending upward,” with the decision to be made after the team reaches Woodland Hills.
Donald retired after 2023 but stayed in shape on his own.
McVay said a contract is required because Donald left $30 million on the table and the Rams have $15 million in cap space.
The Rams camp at Loyola Marymount, finish practice on Aug 7, and open the season in Australia against the 49ers on Sept 10.

History

Historical Context

In 1994 the NFL introduced its first salary cap, set at $33.8 million, prompting teams such as the Chargers to cut ten starters and leading the Los Angeles Rams—then owned by Georgia Frontiere—to relocate to St. Louis after that season. Today, Sean McVay faces a similar cap crunch, with Aaron Donald’s $30 million request exceeding the Rams’ $15 million space.

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Story summary

Sean McVay said Aaron Donald’s return is “trending upward,” with the decision to be made after the team reaches Woodland Hills.
Donald retired after 2023 but stayed in shape on his own.
McVay said a contract is required because Donald left $30 million on the table and the Rams have $15 million in cap space.
The Rams camp at Loyola Marymount, finish practice on Aug 7, and open the season in Australia against the 49ers on Sept 10.

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