From CBS Sports · · 1m 20s
Aaron Donald returns with an A-minus performance
The Rams defensive star showed flashes of his three-time DPOY form in his first game after nearly three years away.
In brief
The Rams defensive star showed flashes of his three-time DPOY form in his first game after nearly three years away. Donald proved he can still impact games at an elite level despite limited snaps, validating the Rams' decision to bring him out of retirement. Originally reported by CBS Sports.
Donald returns after three years
The Rams defensive star played his first game in almost three years on Monday night against the Giants. His performance falls between Mario Lemieux's legendary hockey comeback and Michael Jordan's basketball return.
Elite metrics in limited snaps
Donald played 32 snaps with a 0.75-second get-off on pass-rush attempts, the third-fastest for a defensive tackle this season. He recorded one pressure and three tackles including a tackle for loss.
Biggest play stops Harris cold
Late in the first half, Donald knifed through the line and tackled Najee Harris for a 3-yard loss on third-and-2 from the Rams' 3-yard line. The play showcased his trademark quickness and instincts.
Impact beyond the stat sheet
Donald's presence forced the Giants to account for him constantly and attracted double-teams, creating opportunities for his teammates. His lineup changes kept the Giants' offense off-balance.
A-minus grade for the comeback
Donald earned an A-minus for his performance. A vintage two- or three-sack game would have earned an A, but his goal-line stop and overall defensive impact sealed the high grade.
“Today, the defense played how we were supposed to play. Always got room for improvement, right?”
What it means
Donald proved he can still impact games at an elite level despite limited snaps, validating the Rams' decision to bring him out of retirement.





