Los Angeles – Defensive tackle Aaron Donald, a three‑time AP Defensive Player of the Year and eight‑time All‑Pro, told reporters on Friday that he expects to be on the field for the Rams’ season‑opening game against the New York Giants on Monday night.
Preparation and confidence
Donald, who missed the 2024 and 2025 seasons, rejoined the Rams organization last month and has been training in Southern California. “Feel a lot better now that I got more practices under my belt,” he said, adding that he is “getting in a groove” and “playing a lot more free, a lot more loose, and looking more like myself.”
Team impact
Defensive tackle Kobie Turner described Donald’s anticipated return as “an extra jolt of enthusiasm” for a squad still recovering from a 27‑7 loss to the San Francisco 49ers. Donald’s presence adds a premier pass‑rusher to a defense that will be without Myles Garrett for at least four games while the All‑Pro defensive end recovers from knee surgery.
“He won’t be gone forever, so let him rest up, get healthy, and he’ll be back soon,” Donald said of Garrett. “So, hold it down while he’s gone, and then when he’s back, we’ll get rolling.”
Role and expectations
While Donald is likely to see a reduced snap count compared to his 81% usage in 2023, he expects the limited opportunities to be high‑impact. “I’m gonna go out there, play hard,” he said. “When I need a break, tap out, let the next guy go out there and eat, and I’ll be right back. So, whatever that role is, I’m ready for it.”
New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh praised Donald’s potential impact, calling him a “game‑wrecking type player inside” who can penetrate and disrupt both run and pass plays.
Injury updates
The Rams also face other health concerns. Star wide receiver Puka Nacua missed practice due to a hip injury, and backup Jordan Whittington was sidelined with a quadriceps issue. Nacua previously dealt with soreness in the psoas muscle after a joint practice with the Dallas Cowboys on Aug. 11.
Looking ahead
With Donald’s return, the Rams hope to strengthen a defense that has been stretched thin by injuries. The team will aim to bounce back from the early loss to the 49ers and set a competitive tone for the rest of the season.
Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.
