Rams Plan to Bring Aaron Donald to Australia

September 5, 2026 - 00:30

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay confirmed on Tuesday that the team intends to bring star defensive tackle Aaron Donald along for their upcoming trip to Australia. The Rams are scheduled to face the Philadelphia Eagles in a regular season game in Melbourne next season, and McVay made it clear that Donald, even in retirement, remains a central figure in the organization's plans.

However, McVay was quick to temper expectations about Donald actually suiting up for that contest. While the coach said the plan is to have Donald travel with the squad for the international experience, he stressed that the future Hall of Famer still has not committed to playing in any game, including the season opener in Australia.

Donald, who retired after the 2022 season, has been a constant presence around the team during training camp. He has worked out with players and offered guidance to younger defensive linemen, fueling speculation that a return could be in the works. But McVay was careful to note that Donald's role in Australia would likely be as a mentor and ambassador, not as an active player.

The coach added that the decision ultimately rests with Donald, and that the team will support whatever choice he makes. For now, Rams fans hoping to see number 99 wreak havoc on the field in Melbourne may have to settle for seeing him on the sideline instead. The team is still finalizing travel plans and roster decisions ahead of the historic game.