Rams have high expectations, heading into Training Camp

The Los Angeles Rams reported for training camp with plenty of expectations surrounding the team, but one unexpected storyline quickly dominated Sean McVay’s first press conference of camp: Aaron Donald may not be completely finished with football.

McVay confirmed that Donald, who retired following the 2023 season, is training and putting himself through a process to determine whether his body is ready for a potential return.“He is going through his process and he is putting himself in a position to make a decision,” McVay said. “He’s earned the right to be able to do that.”

McVay stressed that no decision has been made and there is no timetable, but made it clear the Rams would welcome Donald back if the three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year decides he wants to play again.

“If that is something that he wants to do, we are going to try to be able to make that happen,” McVay said.

The possibility adds another intriguing element to a Rams team already entering camp with significant expectations. McVay, however, wants his players focused on what happens inside the building rather than predictions surrounding the season.

“We’re not going to allow the outside expectations to change the way that we approach every day,” he said. “They don’t win games.”

That approach extends to quarterback Matthew Stafford. McVay said Stafford is healthy, but the Rams will carefully manage his workload throughout camp. The veteran quarterback will sit out certain practice days as part of a predetermined plan designed to keep him fresh for the season.

Stafford’s lighter workload will also create additional opportunities for the quarterbacks behind him, including rookie Ty Simpson and Stetson Bennett.

“We need to figure out who that person is that’s going to step up and lead the team if that’s what’s necessary,” McVay said of the backup quarterback competition.

Another player McVay expects to play a major role is wide receiver Davante Adams. McVay acknowledged offseason trade discussions involving Adams but said they never progressed because moving him was not what the Rams believed was best for the team.

“This guy is a pillar for our football team,” McVay said. “He’s a key leader and critical factor.”

McVay added that Adams will remain “a focal point of our offense” and believes the Rams can build upon what he accomplished last season.

As McVay enters his 10th season leading the Rams, his message to the team remains centered on building relationships, embracing competition and staying present.

The theme entering camp, he said, is a “we then me approach,” with players being “present, grateful and courageous.”

“What we did last year has nothing to do with what’s going to happen in training camp and moving forward,” McVay said. For a Rams team facing considerable expectations — and now the possibility of one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history returning — McVay’s focus remains much smaller.

Stack days. Build the team. And see where the road takes you.