Aaron Donald’s Return Sparks Rams’ Super Bowl Hopes

Aaron Donald has come back to the Los Angeles Rams following a brief retirement. Analysts like Nick Wright, Chris Broussard, Kevin Wildes, and Greg Jennings are questioning his immediate impact and whether the Rams’ status as Super Bowl favorites is justified. Additionally, Howie Long shares his perspective on the expectations for Donald’s return and discusses Fernando Mendoza’s readiness to start for the Las Vegas Raiders.

Aaron Donald’s Careful Return

The Rams are carefully managing Donald’s comeback, opting for long-term strategy instead of immediate action. Donald was absent from the team’s travel party for an upcoming game against the San Francisco 49ers in Australia. Coach Sean McVay confirmed Donald will not play in the opening match, a move aimed at prioritizing his readiness for the season’s grueling demands.

Despite McVay’s earlier statements that all players would travel to Australia, he now emphasizes that this decision favors Donald’s health over a rushed return. “He’s doing a great job,” McVay states, underscoring that Donald’s ramp-up is essential for both him and the team’s success.

Strategic Decisions for Longevity

The Rams and Donald agreed on a cautious approach. The focus is on preparing for the 35-year-old defensive lineman’s long-term performance. His next chance to play is aimed for September 21, against the New York Giants, providing an additional 10 days to ready himself for the season.

The Rams position themselves as central contenders in the Super Bowl discussion. This vision was present even before Donald rejoined the team. McVay has elaborated on the defensive line’s depth, ensuring readiness without relying solely on Donald.

A Marathon, Not a Sprint

The Rams are following a marathon-like strategy over the 16-game stretch, aiming to secure Donald’s availability through the season and into the postseason. This avoids risking any injuries by thrusting him into action too soon after resuming practice.

Donald has not played since January 2024. The Rams are ensuring he transitions seamlessly back into the lineup without compromising his physical health.

Upcoming Travel and Schedule

The Rams’ itinerary includes departing Los Angeles on September 8, arriving in Melbourne, Australia, after a 15-to-16-hour flight. The team will lose a full day due to the 14-hour time difference, landing Thursday morning. They face off against the 49ers at 8:35 p.m. ET, with local kickoff at 10:35 a.m. the following day.

Follow updates on the Rams and other NFL news from Armando Salguero, Senior NFL Writer for OutKick.