The Los Angeles Rams’ potential reunion with Aaron Donald and Odell Beckham Jr. has sparked intrigue but remains highly unlikely based on recent comments from head coach Sean McVay and logistical challenges.
Aaron Donald’s Return: Too Late to Realistically Happen
Despite speculation about Donald’s possible return, including comments from former NFL lineman Justin Pugh, the timing and procedural hurdles make it almost impossible. Donald was placed on the reserve/retired list before the season, and the NFL’s rules state that players on this list must activate by Week 13. The only workaround would involve releasing Donald from the reserve/retired list, which would subject him to waivers—allowing any team to claim him before the Rams.
McVay’s comments further diminish the possibility:
- McVay emphasized his respect for Donald’s decision to retire and expressed no intention to push him toward a return.
- He praised Donald’s legacy and expressed satisfaction with how Donald closed his career.
Donald, a three-time Defensive Player of the Year, was still dominant in 2023, earning Pro Bowl and First-Team All-Pro honors with 8.0 sacks. His return would undoubtedly bolster a Rams defense struggling with the seventh-fewest sacks in the league, but the practical barriers make this scenario improbable.
Odell Beckham Jr.: A Slim Chance Amid Crowded WR Room
Beckham, who was waived by the Miami Dolphins on December 13 after a limited season (9 receptions for 55 yards), has been linked to the Rams. However, McVay has downplayed any active discussions about bringing him back:
- While McVay expressed respect for Beckham, he confirmed that the team hasn’t explored this option.
- Analysts like D’Marco Farr argue that Beckham’s addition could disrupt the Rams’ wide receiver corps, which is already crowded.
Beckham’s recent history raises questions about his potential impact:
- Injuries have plagued Beckham in recent years, including a torn ACL during Super Bowl LVI with the Rams and a missed 2022 season.
- His last significant production came in 2019, with no season exceeding 565 receiving yards since.
Financial Considerations
The Rams’ $3.2 million in cap space limits their flexibility for mid-season moves. While both Donald and Beckham have earned substantial career earnings, any contract structure would need to be team-friendly. For Donald, existing contractual obligations could complicate matters, even beyond the waiver process.
Conclusion
While a reunion with Donald or Beckham could theoretically enhance the Rams’ playoff push, practical and procedural obstacles make these moves highly unlikely. Sean McVay’s deference to Donald’s retirement and his reserved stance on Beckham reflect a focus on the current roster rather than chasing nostalgic storylines. For now, the Rams appear set to rely on their existing personnel to secure a postseason berth and a potential division title.
