McVay declined to provide a definitive timeline for when the veteran will make his return to game action. While the Rams are preparing for their season opener against the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Australia, on September 10, the head coach acknowledged that Donald’s participation in that contest is not yet guaranteed.
Managing the return of a defensive icon
When asked if there was a possibility that Donald might sit out the Week 1 matchup, McVay confirmed it remains a potential outcome. He emphasized that the team’s priority is ensuring the 35-year-old is physically ready, stating that they would not force him to play unnecessarily if it is not in the best interest of the player or the team. The Rams have been operating without Donald for the past two seasons and remain prepared to continue that approach if necessary.
Donald, who initially announced his retirement in March 2024 following a decade in the
A unique transition for the veteran
McVay admitted that the situation is unprecedented, noting that the team is taking the transition one day at a time. The coaching staff has yet to integrate Donald into 11-on-11 team drills, which will be a critical next step in evaluating his readiness. The specific role Donald will occupy this season remains under discussion, with McVay noting that the plan will largely depend on how the player feels as he ramps up his activity.
Donald’s resume includes three Defensive Player of the Year awards, eight first-team All-Pro selections, and 10 Pro Bowl appearances. Since individual sacks became an official statistic in 1982, his 111 career sacks rank second among primary defensive tackles, trailing only John Randle’s 137.5. As the Rams continue their preparations, the focus remains on carefully managing the workload of one of the league's most decorated defenders.
