Rams Training Camp Yields Unexpected Standouts and an Ongoing Aaron Donald Decision

Los Angeles concluded its two-week training camp at Loyola Marymount University with several unanticipated developments. Defensive tackle Aaron Donald completed a formal, non-padded workout at the Woodland Hills facility, sparking speculation about a possible return after a 2½-year retirement. Sixth-round rookie wide receiver CJ Daniels emerged as a consistent target, positioning himself as a potential third receiver behind Davante Adams and Puka Nacua. Backup quarterback Stetson Bennett displayed superior command of the offense, keeping first-round pick Ty Simpson from overtaking the role. New defensive additions—edge rusher Myles Garrett, cornerbacks Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson—integrated quickly, with defensive end Braden Fiske noting improved communication across the line.

4 Biggest Surprises from Rams Training Camp

• Aaron Donald – Former three-time Defensive Player of the Year performed a non-padded drill; coaching staff described the effort as “looking great” while awaiting his final decision.

4 Biggest Surprises from Rams Training Camp

• CJ Daniels – Sixth-round pick proved “the most consistent rookie” in camp, catching nearly every target and building rapport with Bennett.

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• Stetson Bennett – Entered camp with three years of offensive experience; outperformed Simpson and earned praise for “sharp command” of the playbook.

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• Myles Garrett – Joined the defensive line this offseason; his presence accelerated the unit’s cohesion, according to teammates.

4 Biggest Surprises from Rams Training Camp

Head coach Sean McVay said Donald’s workout was “going in the right direction” and that the team will wait “indefinitely” for the veteran’s personal decision, emphasizing that any return would be “the right way.”

Rams wrap up training camp practices with no comeback decision from Aaron Donald

Quarterback Matthew Stafford lauded the overall competition level, describing the environment as a “blessing” and commending the depth of talent on both sides of the ball.

4 Biggest Surprises from Rams Training Camp

• The camp comprised 10 practices before the final session on July 31, 2026.

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• Rookie CJ Daniels was selected in the sixth round of the 2026 draft.

4 Biggest Surprises from Rams Training Camp

• Ty Simpson was the 13th-overall pick in the 2026 first round.

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• The Rams’ first preseason matchup is scheduled for August 15 against the Kansas City Chiefs.

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The emergence of Daniels and Bennett provides the Rams with depth at receiver and backup quarterback, potentially stabilizing the offense ahead of a Super Bowl push. Defensive integration of Garrett and the reported chemistry on the line suggest a more formidable pass rush, while Donald’s eventual decision could further reshape the front seven.

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• “I’m surrounded by so many great players and I don’t take that for granted, both on our side of the football and on the defensive side,” — Rams Manage Matthew Stafford

4 Biggest Surprises from Rams Training Camp

• “That’s as high-quality practice football as I’ve been around,” — Rams Manage Matthew Stafford

4 Biggest Surprises from Rams Training Camp

• “We've done a really good job stacking days,” — Braden Fiske

Braden Fiske details how he and new-look Rams defense feel after going through training camp at LMU

• “Not all men are created equal, that's for sure,” — Braden Fiske

Braden Fiske details how he and new-look Rams defense feel after going through training camp at LMU

The Rams will return to their Woodland Hills facility to prepare for the regular season, with the first preseason game set for August 15 against the Kansas City Chiefs. The team’s focus will remain on finalizing the roster and monitoring Aaron Donald’s status as the season approaches.

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