Schefter explained that Donald visited the Rams’ facility to test how it felt to be back in pads and to gauge his body’s response. He indicated that going through those workouts signals a real possibility of a comeback, even if details about what Donald conveyed afterward aren’t clear. “It’s an incredibly attractive arrangement for him. It’s just a question of whether he wants to go through and do it,” Schefter said, adding that his sense is Donald will consider returning, though it remains a decision he’s carefully weighing.
If Donald does return, the Rams would once again boast a hiring strength on defense. The team, already having reached the NFC Championship Game last season, reinforced its roster this offseason with the addition of Garrett. A Donald-Garrett combination would give Los Angeles one of the league’s premier pass-rushing tandems and could pose a significant challenge to any opponent.
For the San Francisco 49ers, the prospect of facing a revitalized Rams defense would be daunting. San Francisco enters 2026 with high ambitions, aiming for another deep playoff run. If Donald returns, the Rams would add another future Hall of Fame-caliber player to a defense that already features one of the league’s elite pass rushers. The possibility of facing Los Angeles twice in the regular season, along with potential hurdles from the defending Super Bowl champions Seattle Seahawks, would complicate the 49ers’ path to another division title and playoff run.
The 49ers are known for their success when healthy; they have reached the Super Bowl three times in the past six seasons, though they have fallen short in those attempts. Regardless, a healthy 49ers squad remains a formidable opponent, and the addition of Donald to a Rams defense would elevate the stakes in any matchup between the two teams.
As this situation develops, keep an eye on Donald’s continued workouts and any formal decisions from him regarding a return. The potential impact on the Rams’ defense and the NFC West race could be significant, depending on whether Donald ultimately chooses to resume his playing career.
