AARON DONALD IS BACK: Rams DT Could Play Monday Night โ€” First Game Since 2023 ๐Ÿˆ๐Ÿ”ฅ

Aaron Donald could suit up Monday night against the Giants โ€” his first NFL game in two years. Coach Sean McVay is "hopeful," and Donald's roster exemption was lifted Friday.

9/18/20261 min read

The most feared defensive tackle of his generation is about to walk back onto an NFL field. Aaron Donald could play Monday night against the Giants โ€” his first game since 2023, a full two years away from football.

Rams coach Sean McVay told reporters he's "hopeful" Donald suits up, and the team's roster exemption for the star defender was lifted on Friday, clearing the path for a return.

Donald didn't take the comeback lightly. He skipped the Rams' Australia trip to keep training at home โ€” putting in individual drills on August 30th, then full team drills on September 6th. The reports say he's ready.

## ๐Ÿง  SNUBBZ TAKE

You don't just replace a guy like Aaron Donald. When #99 walks back in that building, every offensive line in the league feels it. The Giants better pack their lunch Monday night. Two years off or not โ€” a generational talent doesn't forget how to wreck a game plan.

**Sources:** NBC Sports (Sept 17, 2026), via ESPN's Sarah Barshop.

**Photo:** NBC Sports / Getty Images.