Aaron Donald's Status for Rams-Giants Updated By McVay as NFL Star 'Chomping at the Bit' to Play

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay said that defensive tackle Aaron Donald is "obviously chomping at the bit" to play in the team's Week 2 matchup with the New York Giants, according to ESPN's Sarah Barshop .

"What we are hopeful is, is that we'll have some good work today and tomorrow and then hopefully he's feeling good enough," McVay explained, per Barshop. "And if he says he's ready to go, then we'll be excited to see him [on MNF]."

Donald came out of retirement to join the Rams ahead of the 2026 season, but didn't travel with them to Australia for a 27-7 loss to the San Francisco 49ers in Week 1. The three-time Defensive Player of the Year is still ramping up as he prepares to make his first appearance in an NFL game since his 2023 campaign.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport previously reported that the "hope" is Donald will be available to suit up against the Giants.

The 35-year-old was a full participant in Los Angeles' practice on Thursday, per Stu Jackson of the team's official website.

Even though the Rams boasted an imposing front seven prior to Donald's arrival, they're suddenly in need of more help along their defensive line.

Los Angeles failed to sack 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy in its lopsided Week 1 defeat. San Francisco also amassed 174 rush yards as a team, averaging 5.8 yards per carry.

Blockbuster offseason addition Myles Garrett failed to record a tackle or sack in his Rams debut. Garrett was eventually placed on injured reserve due to arthroscopic knee surgery, sidelining him for a minimum of four games.

While Donald has been away from the NFL for multiple years, it isn't difficult to imagine him making his presence felt once he takes the field again.

After all, he remained productive throughout his last season with Los Angeles in 2023. In 16 games that year, Donald racked up 53 tackles, 23 quarterback hits, 16 tackles for loss, eight sacks and three passes defended.

The Rams will be facing a Giants offensive line that allowed just two sacks in a 28-20 win over the Dallas Cowboys in Week 1.

Kickoff between Los Angeles and New York is on Monday at 8:15 p.m. ET.