What happened: Aaron Donald is following a program similar to his playing routine to see how his body responds. Sean McVay said Donald has earned the right to work through the decision on his own schedule.
Why it matters: Donald has been retired since March 2024, making the regimen his clearest concrete step toward a comeback. A return would restore one of the NFL's most decorated defenders to Los Angeles for the 2026 season.
By the numbers: Donald retired after 10 seasons with 111 sacks, three Defensive Player of the Year awards, eight first-team All-Pro selections and 10 Pro Bowl nods.
What to watch: Watch whether Donald's training produces a decision during camp or later in the 2026 season.