LOS ANGELES, July 10 (Reuters) – Future Hall of Fame defensive tackle Aaron Donald was spotted wearing Los Angeles Rams gear while coaching Pittsburgh Steelers safety Jaquan Brisker in pass-rush techniques. The viral video has ignited speculation about a potential NFL comeback.
Donald, 35, retired in March 2024 after a 10-year career with the Rams. Two years removed from the game, the visual of him in Rams apparel teaching a rival team’s player is impossible to ignore. The Rams Wire described Donald as “looking like a guy who could still play for the Rams.”
The session took place in Pittsburgh. Photos show Donald in a Rams hoodie and shorts, demonstrating hand placement and footwork to Brisker. Brisker, 26, is entering his fourth NFL season.
Donald’s physical condition remains elite. Even after two years off, his frame and movement suggest he could still produce double-digit sacks. The precedent exists: Rob Gronkowski retired in 2019, returned in 2020, and played two more seasons.
Brisker opened up about the mentorship via Yahoo Sports. “I feel at home with the Steelers,” Brisker said. “Learning from a legend like Aaron, even if he’s from another team, makes me better. It shows what the Steelers culture is about—always learning.”
Cross-team coaching sessions are rare in the NFL. Brisker’s willingness to learn from a Rams legend underscores his dedication. It also reflects Donald’s continued engagement with the game.
The Rams’ current defensive line lacks a dominant interior pass rusher. In 2025, the team ranked 22nd in sacks per game. Donald’s return would instantly transform that unit.
Financial implications are significant. Donald’s last contract was a three-year, $95 million extension signed in 2022. Any new deal would require restructuring by the Rams, who are currently $12 million under the 2026 salary cap.
Fan reaction has been explosive. ClutchPoints reported that the video “opened eyes” across the league. Social media posts speculating about a return have accumulated over 50,000 interactions in 48 hours.
Is Donald plotting an epic comeback? He has not made any public statements. The session could be a simple favor between players. But the imagery—Donald in Rams gear, teaching pass-rush moves—is a powerful signal.
The NFL world is watching. Donald’s legacy in Los Angeles is secure: three-time Defensive Player of the Year, eight-time All-Pro, and a Super Bowl LVI champion. A return would add another chapter.
For now, the question remains unanswered. What is clear: Aaron Donald, in Rams gear, looks like he could still play.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: What sparked speculation about Aaron Donald’s NFL comeback?
- A: A viral video showing Aaron Donald wearing Los Angeles Rams gear while coaching Pittsburgh Steelers safety Jaquan Brisker in pass-rush techniques ignited speculation about a potential NFL comeback.
- Q: When did Aaron Donald retire?
- A: Aaron Donald retired in March 2024 after a 10-year career with the Los Angeles Rams.
- Q: How did Jaquan Brisker describe the coaching session with Aaron Donald?
- A: Jaquan Brisker said learning from a legend like Aaron Donald, even from another team, makes him better and reflects the Steelers’ culture of always learning.
Extended Reading
The viral video was first reported by The Rams Wire on July 9, 2026. Additional context on Brisker’s perspective comes from Yahoo Sports. ClutchPoints provided analysis on league-wide reactions. No further updates on Donald’s status were available at press time.