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Aaron Donald Returns as Rams Beat Giants 28-6

By Drooid · Sep 22, 2026, 3:33 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Aaron Donald Returns

Aaron Donald returned after 32 months in the Rams’ 28-6 win over the New York Giants.
Donald signed a one-year, $20 million contract on Aug. 30, 2026 to rejoin the Rams.
Donald recorded three tackles, one for loss, on 32 snaps.
Donald said his children’s doubts about his readiness motivated his comeback.
The Rams limited the Giants to 182 total yards and zero touchdowns.

Summary

Puka Nacua Out

Puka Nacua is ruled out with a hip injury, leaving the Rams without top receiver.
The Rams will rely on Davante Adams, Xavier Smith, Konata Mumpfield and Tutu Atwell.
Safety Kam Kinchens is inactive with a hamstring injury, thinning Los Angeles’ secondary.
Giants sidelined cornerback Deonte Banks (calf) and linebacker Micah McFadden, reducing defensive depth.
Najee Harris is active for his Giants debut after signing following a limited Chargers stint.

History

Historical Context

In 1999, the Los Angeles Rams captured Super Bowl XXXIV, finishing the regular season 13-3 and establishing a high-scoring offense. That championship featured Kurt Warner, Marshall Faulk, and a $30 million payroll topped the league, while coach Dick Vermeil won Coach of the Year. Similarly, in 2026 the Rams rely on Aaron Donald's $20 million comeback and cope with injuries to receivers, echoing the 1999 reliance on star talent. The pattern shows that Rams' championship aspirations repeatedly hinge on marquee players' health and contracts, suggesting future roster strategies will prioritize depth and injury mitigation.

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Aaron Donald Returns

Aaron Donald returned after 32 months in the Rams’ 28-6 win over the New York Giants.
Donald signed a one-year, $20 million contract on Aug. 30, 2026 to rejoin the Rams.
Donald recorded three tackles, one for loss, on 32 snaps.
Donald said his children’s doubts about his readiness motivated his comeback.
The Rams limited the Giants to 182 total yards and zero touchdowns.

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