Aaron Donald is officially a Ram again, and his comeback does more than create a terrifying partnership with Myles Garrett.
It also pushes back his date with Canton.
Donald had been on track for Pro Football Hall of Fame eligibility with the Class of 2029 after retiring in March 2024. His final season was 2023, starting the Hall’s mandatory five-season waiting period.
Once Donald plays in 2026, that clock resets.
If this season proves to be his last — and with a player who has already retired once, that is hardly guaranteed — Donald would need to sit out 2027 through 2031 before becoming eligible for the Class of 2032.
Every additional season would push that date back another year.
What will not change is his case.
Donald already has three Defensive Player of the Year awards, eight first-team All-Pro selections, 10 Pro Bowls, 111 sacks and a Super Bowl ring. His résumé was airtight before this comeback; now he only has a chance to make it more absurd.
When Donald first retired, Sean McVay recalled him summing up his decision in two words: “I’m full.”
Apparently, he found room for seconds.
And if this comeback adds another ring, another All-Pro nod or another chapter to an already ridiculous career, Canton can wait.
Donald spent all offseason making the NFL wait on him.
Now the Hall of Fame gets its turn.
