Rams’ Defensive Front Reboot at Training Camp

During the final public practice of the 2026 training camp at Loyola Marymount University, edge rusher Myles Garrett returned after missing four sessions with lower-body soreness. On the same day, former Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald completed a helmet-only workout at the Rams’ Woodland Hills facility, his first on-field activity since retiring after the 2023 season.

Aaron Donald works out for Rams, setting stage for possible return

The Rams traded draft picks and former defensive rookie Jared Verse to acquire Garrett, a two-time Defensive Player of the Year, after losing Jalon Walker and Nic Scourton to torn ACLs. Donald retired following the 2023 season after three Defensive Player of the Year awards and ten Pro Bowls.

Aaron Donald works out for Rams, setting stage for possible return

• Garrett told reporters he feels good, noting that “I’m allowed to get sore” and that occasional bumps are part of the process.

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• Workout Details: Donald performed a helmet-only drill using Rams equipment; the activity was reported on the NFL transaction wire.

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• Team Stance: Defensive coordinator Chris Shula said there is “no update on Donald’s status” but added that adding a former Defensive Player of the Year would be “really exciting.”

Rams' defense sets the tone as Aaron Donald's potential return looms over training camp

• Myles Garrett said his downtime was an opportunity to “break bread” with teammates and emphasized a “one game at a time” mindset.

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• “We’re erring on the side of being smart with him,” — Sean McVay

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• “Obviously, I'd be really excited about that,” — Chris Shula

Rams' defense sets the tone as Aaron Donald's potential return looms over training camp

• Donald’s Status: Sources differ on the workout’s implication. Some see it as a strong likelihood of return; others say it was solely for Donald to assess his readiness. No contract or roster move has been announced.

Aaron Donald has official ‘workout’ with Rams

• Garrett’s Health Outlook: McVay described the soreness as a precaution, but the timeline for Garrett’s full participation remains unspecified.

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• The Rams will reconvene at Woodland Hills after the LMU camp, with additional practices before the preseason opener.

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• Any decision on Donald’s return will be communicated after the team returns to Woodland Hills.

Aaron Donald has official ‘workout’ with Rams

• Monitoring Garrett’s snap counts in the upcoming preseason games will clarify his role in the defensive scheme.

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