Aaron Donald, the guy the Los Angeles Rams pulled out of retirement to form what everyone knows is an easy Super Bowl favorite superteam with Myles Garrett, isn’t actually expected to suit up for Week 1. Yeah, you read that right. The most likely return date for the future Hall of Famer isn’t the season opener against the San Francisco 49ers.
When Donald Hits The Field, And Why It’s Not Week 1
So, what’s the deal? ESPN’s Dan Graziano dropped the info, saying that while you can’t *totally* rule anything out, a Week 2 or 3 debut for Donald looks way more likely than him hitting the field for Week 1. He even said, “A Week 2 or 3 debut looks more likely than Week 1.” The Rams aren’t going to officially rule him out yet, but the whispers are clear. Think about it: the Rams kick off their season in Australia against the 49ers. That’s a huge international trek to start the year. Add in the fact that Donald’s been out of the game for two whole years, with his last NFL snap way back in 2023. It makes total sense they wouldn’t rush their 35-year-old, 10-time Pro Bowler back for a flight halfway across the globe. No reason to force it.
The Stakes: Who Dodges Donald and Who Gets Slammed?
This is big news for a few reasons. First off, it means the San Francisco 49ers might just get to dodge Donald’s wrath in Week 1. Lucky ducks! But the New York Giants in Week 2 and/or the Denver Broncos in Week 3? They might not be so fortunate. This guy is a monster, an 8-time first-team All-Pro with a mind-boggling 111 career sacks. He’s coming back to add another Super Bowl title to his already legendary resume, and you know he’s itching to rack up more sacks. It’s a long season, folks. The Rams are aiming for the ultimate prize, and they need Donald healthy and dominant down the stretch. Rushing him back for an early international game, only for him to not be 100% later, would be a rookie mistake, and this Rams team ain’t making those with this kind of talent.
So, while Rams fans are definitely hyped to see Donald back, it looks like they’ll have to wait just a little bit longer. The 2026 NFL season starts without him on the field for the Super Bowl favorites, but his impact is coming. Get ready for Week 2 or Week 3, because when Aaron Donald hits that field, the entire league is gonna feel it. It’s gonna be electric!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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