Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald (99) enters the field before the game against the Cleveland Browns at SoFi Stadium.
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Michael Jordan is the greatest player in NBA history. He won six championships, five MVP trophies, and 10 scoring titles during his time in the NBA. However, some of those accolades that make for an unmatched resume didn't happen until after Jordan first retired. His Airness left the Chicago Bulls in 1993 in pursuit of a baseball career. Less than two years later, the G.O.A.T. announced his return to the hardwood with a press release that simply said: “I'm Back.”
The memo has been repeated by athletes ending a hiatus numerous times since, but it rarely meant as much as it did with Jordan's return. That was until Aaron Donald wrote “I'm Back” and officially confirmed his return to the Los Angeles Rams.
pic.twitter.com/G4Wc6GZVLX
— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) August 30, 2026
The defensive tackle hasn't played since the 2023 season, but he was one of the best defensive players in NFL history during a 10-year career that ended while he was still in his prime. Donald is one of just three players with three Defensive Player of the Year nods to his name. The 10-time Pro Bowler and Super Bowl LVI champion seemingly still has plenty left in the tank, too.
Donald is just 35 years old and joins a loaded Rams' defense that added reigning Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett in the offseason. Trent McDuffie was also acquired via trade, and Jaylen Watson was added in free agency. Along with an offense that features Matthew Stafford, Puka Nacua, and Davante Adams, the former of whom was last year's MVP, and the Rams seem like clear-cut Super Bowl favorites. Winning three championships post-retirement, as Jordan did, seems unlikely for Donald, but the defensive tackle is officially back.