The Los Angeles Rams are facing an intriguing scenario for their 2026 defensive line, centered on the potential return of Aaron Donald. After stepping away from football following the 2023 season, Donald's possible comeback has become a major topic for the team.
Head coach Sean McVay confirmed in July that Donald was in the process of deciding whether to return. Recent reports indicate the three-time Defensive Player of the Year has been working out with other Rams defensive linemen, including Braden Fiske, who emerged as a significant presence on the interior defensive line.
If Donald does return, his role will be a key factor. At 35 years old and coming off a two-year absence, a specialized role focusing on obvious passing situations seems more realistic than an immediate return to an 80-percent snap workload. This approach could allow the Rams to maximize his ability to pressure the quarterback, potentially leading to a surprisingly high sack total even with fewer total snaps.
Braden Fiske's trajectory provides a contrast. As a rookie in 2024, Fiske burst onto the scene with 8.5 sacks, marking the third-most by a rookie in Rams history, alongside 51 pressures and 40 hurries. His second season, 2025, saw a statistical dip to three sacks, a period he acknowledged wasn't his best physically due to injuries. Fiske has since stated he feels healthy and ready for a bounce-back season in 2026.
The presence of Myles Garrett, another formidable pass rusher, is expected to create opportunities across the defensive front. Fiske himself acknowledged that Garrett is "not exactly a normal player" and can significantly alter how opposing offenses approach the Rams' defensive line, potentially opening lanes for others.
Rams fans have already weighed in on who might lead in sacks for 2026. A recent fan poll showed that while Donald, the veteran powerhouse, garnered the majority of votes, Fiske still received a 36% share, indicating a notable level of optimism for the third-year player.
Ultimately, the question for the 2026 season boils down to production: will Donald's potential, even in a limited capacity, outpace the youthful breakout potential of a healthy Fiske? The team's defensive strategy under Sean McVay and Chris Shula will largely determine how these two powerful interior linemen are deployed.
