Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald is expected to play tonight against the New York Giants on Monday Night Football in Week 2 of the 2026 NFL season.
Donald is set to make his 2026 season debut after sitting out the Rams’ Week 1 matchup against the San Francisco 49ers. His return gives Los Angeles a major addition to its defensive front for the prime-time matchup at SoFi Stadium.
Is Aaron Donald Playing Tonight?
Yes, Aaron Donald is expected to play for the Rams against the Giants on Monday, September 21, 2026.
Donald was a rest-related non-participant on the Rams’ final practice report, but he did not receive an injury designation for Monday night’s game. That puts him on track to be available against New York.
Rams head coach Sean McVay also indicated that Donald is expected to make his season debut against the Giants.
Aaron Donald Returns to the Rams in 2026
Monday night will be a significant moment for Donald, who returned to the NFL after previously retiring following the 2023 season.
Donald’s last NFL game came during the Rams’ playoff loss to the Detroit Lions in January 2024. His return to the field in 2026 puts one of the most accomplished defensive players of his generation back in the middle of the Los Angeles defense.
The three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year and Super Bowl LVI champion gives the Rams another disruptive presence capable of generating pressure from the interior of the defensive line.
What Aaron Donald’s Return Means for the Rams
Donald’s presence could significantly change how the Giants approach their offensive protection.
New York may need to devote additional attention to Donald with double teams and protection adjustments, potentially creating one-on-one opportunities for other Rams pass rushers.
For Los Angeles, the biggest question will be how large of a workload Donald receives in his first NFL game in more than two years. The Rams could manage his snaps as he works his way back into regular-season game action.
Giants vs. Rams Monday Night Football Game Information
Matchup: New York Giants at Los Angeles Rams
Date: Monday, September 21, 2026
Kickoff: 8:15 p.m. ET / 5:15 p.m. PT
Stadium: SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, California
TV: ESPN/ABC
Week: 2026 NFL Week 2
Is Aaron Donald Playing Against the Giants?
Barring a late change before kickoff, Aaron Donald is expected to play tonight for the Los Angeles Rams against the New York Giants.
The Monday Night Football matchup will mark Donald’s 2026 season debut and his first NFL game since January 2024, making his return one of the biggest storylines to watch in Giants vs. Rams.