Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald said Friday he plans to play against the New York Giants on Monday night, his first game since ending his retirement on Aug. 30.
"That's the plan," Donald told reporters. He said he expected to practice Saturday before a final determination.
Donald, 35, initially retired in March 2024 but reversed that decision less than five months later. He did not travel to Australia for the Rams' Week 1 loss to the San Francisco 49ers.
Coach Sean McVay said Thursday that Donald would practice throughout the week. Donald confirmed he participated in team drills for two consecutive days and said increased practice time has helped him feel more like himself on the field.
Donald said he does not know his snap count and expects the coaching staff has "a good game plan" for his integration back into the defense. He noted the long season ahead and said he is ready for whatever role the team defines, "whether that's taking breaks and letting other guys get reps."
If Donald plays Monday, it will mark 981 days since his last NFL game.
Wide receiver Puka Nacua, who had five catches for 74 yards in the Week 1 loss to San Francisco, missed Friday practice with a hip injury. His status for Monday remains unclear.
