Adam Schefter Adds Fuel to the Fire on Aaron Donald Comeback Rumors
The Aaron Donald comeback buzz has been simmering for weeks, but ESPN insider Adam Schefter just turned up the heat. During the latest episode of The Adam Schefter Podcast, the NFL newsbreaker said it’s now “more likely than not” that the former Los Angeles Rams superstar returns to join Myles Garrett on the defensive line this season.
That’s not a throwaway line. When Schefter leans this far into a possibility, especially in June, it means the situation is real, and momentum is building.
Schefter: “More Likely Than Not” That Donald Returns
Adam Schefter didn’t dance around the topic. He made it clear that the Rams aren’t just leaving the door open, they’re actively acknowledging the possibility.
“Everybody is acknowledging that it is a possibility,” Schefter said. “And the fact that it is even a possibility in June tells me that I think there’s every possibility it will become more real in July.”
That’s classic Schefter language for: This is trending in one direction. He added that once the Rams present Donald with a clear plan for how he’d be used, he believes the future Hall of Famer will seriously consider suiting up again.
“If I had to guess, I would guess it does happen,” Schefter said. “That’s just a guess, no information.”
Even with the disclaimer, Schefter doesn’t casually “guess” about things like this unless the smoke is coming from a real fire.
Why the Rams Suddenly Feel Like a Fit Again
The Los Angeles Rams shocked the league when they traded for Garrett, who just broke the NFL’s single‑season sack record with 23. Pairing him with Donald, even a 35‑year‑old version, would instantly give Los Angeles the most terrifying pass‑rush duo in football. And Donald knows it.
Shortly after the Garrett trade, he told both Pat McAfee and Jordan Schultz that he was “for sure flirting with the idea” of returning. He even pointed out the added motivation of the Super Bowl being played at SoFi Stadium this season. That’s not subtle. That’s a legend saying, “If I’m coming back, this is the year.”
Money Is a Hurdle But Not a Dealbreaker
Schefter previously reported that the Rams were “out of money” after taking on Garrett’s contract and signing Trent McDuffie to a massive four‑year, $124 million deal. But now? Other teams around the league don’t buy that excuse.
“When we speak to other teams, they’re like, ‘They’ll find the money. They’ll make it happen,’” Schefter said.
The Rams currently have just under $19 million in projected 2026 cap space, per Over the Cap. That’s not a ton — but it’s enough to get creative. And if Donald truly wants to return, both sides can structure something workable.
Les Snead Isn’t Shutting the Door Either
Rams general manager Les Snead could have ended the speculation last week. Instead, he added to it. Asked about Donald’s potential return on Wake Up Barstool, Snead called the idea “a cool, unique story.” That’s GM‑speak for: We’re not ruling anything out.
Can Donald Still Play at a High Level?
Donald last played in 2023, finishing with eight sacks in 16 games. Even at 35, his strength, leverage, and technique would still make him a problem for offensive lines — especially if Garrett is drawing double‑teams on the opposite side.
The real question is whether Donald can get back to NFL speed quickly enough. If he can, the Rams suddenly become one of the most dangerous defensive fronts in the league.
The Bottom Line: Schefter Just Made This Real
The Aaron Donald comeback talk was fun speculation before. Now, thanks to Schefter, it feels like something more, something possible, maybe even probable. When the most trusted insider in football says it’s “more likely than not,” the league pays attention.
And if Donald does return? The Rams instantly become one of the most compelling teams in the NFL.
