US News
Los Angeles Rams overhaul defense with Aaron Donald return and Myles Garrett trade
The team paired major veteran defensive acquisitions with long-term extensions following an NFC championship game loss.
The short version
- The Los Angeles Rams completed a massive defensive overhaul, bringing defensive tackle Aaron Donald out of retirement and acquiring edge-rusher Myles Garrett in a major trade.
- The team also revamped its secondary by acquiring and extending cornerback Trent McDuffie and signing free-agent cornerback Jaylen Watson.
- Despite high expectations, the team faces questions over Matthew Stafford's health at age 38, potential offensive player suspensions, and Donald's performance after a two-year hiatus.
Key facts
- Aaron Donald agreed to a one-year contract with the Los Angeles Rams worth $20 million that can reach up to $30 million through incentives, ending a two-year retirement at age 35.[The Guardian]
- The Rams acquired edge-rusher Myles Garrett from the Cleveland Browns for edge-rusher Jared Verse, a 2027 first-round pick, a 2028 second-round pick, and a 2029 third-round pick.[The Guardian]
- The Rams traded draft assets including a 2026 first-round pick for Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Trent McDuffie and subsequently signed him to a four-year, $124 million extension featuring $100 million guaranteed.[The Guardian]
- Free-agent cornerback Jaylen Watson joined the Rams on a three-year contract valued at $51 million.[The Guardian]
- Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford is entering the season coming off an MVP 2025 campaign in which he threw 52 total touchdown passes.[The Guardian]
What remains uncertain
- It remains uncertain whether wide receiver Puka Nacua and offensive tackle Alaric Jackson will face league suspensions for off-field conduct.[The Guardian]
- How effectively Aaron Donald can perform on the field at age 35 after two seasons away from professional football is not yet known.[The Guardian]