New Aaron Donald Rumors on Contract Being Hold Up for Rams Return, DT Won't 'Play for Free'

Speculation about whether Aaron Donald will come back for the Los Angeles Rams has continued throughout the summer, and there still isn't a resolution.

During a Monday an appearance on The Rich Eisen Show (35-second mark), Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer reported the money aspect of the situation could be playing a role.

"This isn't from Rams people or from Donald's people, but one thing that has continually come up when I talk to other people in the league about it is, 'how do you work out the money part of it? How much are you paying him? How does it fit into their budget, both cash and cap?' So there's that piece of it too. I don't think he's going to want to come out there and play for free."

Still, the Rams have surely thought about the money part since speculation began that Donald would be coming back shortly after they traded for Myles Garrett. 

With that as the backdrop, Breer suggested the financial component isn't the most important one.

"I think the bigger piece, and this is just me talking, is him feeling comfortable that he can go out there and be Aaron Donald," he said.. "… The trouble with that is it's not just his ability to play football at a high level. It's to be Aaron Donald."

Playing like peak Aaron Donald is a significant amount to ask of any player in NFL history. 

Even, well, Aaron Donald.

The future Hall of Famer is 35 years old and hasn't played an NFL game since the 2023 campaign. He may remain dominant, especially playing alongside Garrett, but expecting him to be the same version of himself who put together a legendary resume is a bit unrealistic.

After all, that resume includes a Super Bowl title, three Defensive Player of the Year awards, a Defensive Rookie of the Year, eight First-Team All-Pro nods and 10 Pro Bowl selections. He led the NFL with 20.5 sacks in 2018 and has 111 for his career.

Breer reported the Rams will have a plan for him if and when he does return that will include a limited snap count to maximize his effectiveness. 

Even if he isn't quite as effective as he was when he was arguably the best player in the league, he will surely be a difference-maker for the defense. First, though, he has to officially decide whether he will come back in 2026.