Honestly, it feels weird seeing an NFL Sunday without #97 collapsing a pocket. For a decade, Aaron Donald was the sun that the Los Angeles Rams' defensive solar system orbited around. Then, he just... walked away. No long-winded farewell tour. No holding out for one last massive bag. He knew he was full.
So, what is Aaron Donald doing now?
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As of early 2026, the man is actually busier than when he was double-teamed by NFC West guards. If you think retirement for a three-time Defensive Player of the Year means sitting on a beach sipping margaritas, you clearly don't know Aaron Donald. He’s currently splitting his time between big-time business moves, a massive new Hall of Fame honor, and his ever-present "blue-collar" training sessions.
The Hall of Fame Call (Again)
Just a few days ago, on January 14, 2026, the National Football Foundation dropped some news that surprised absolutely nobody. Aaron Donald was officially elected to the College Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026.
It’s easy to forget just how much of a nightmare he was at Pitt before he ever touched an NFL field. We're talking about a guy who had 28.5 tackles for loss in a single season. He’s heading to Las Vegas this December for the induction ceremony at the Bellagio. It’s the first of two "inevitable" hall of fame calls; he isn't eligible for Canton until 2029, but everyone knows that’s just a formality.
From the Field to the Boardroom
Basically, Donald is turning into a bit of a mogul. He isn't just a "face" for brands; he’s an owner.
Most of his business energy goes into Ready Nutrition. He’s a co-owner and has been deep in the weeds with them since 2019. If you see their protein waters or snacks in stores, that’s his primary post-football hustle. He’s also been spotted lately rubbing elbows with some serious heavy hitters. On January 13, 2026, he was at the Intuit Dome for the launch of Fanatics Studios.
Imagine this scene: Tom Brady, Travis Scott, James Harden, and Aaron Donald all in one room. They weren't there to play ball. They were there because Fanatics is moving into the "film space," and Donald has already mentioned he’s working on projects there. He’s looking at life through a lens now, not just a facemask.
Where He’s Living and Investing
- Wexford, Pennsylvania: This is home base. He moved back to his roots to be near family.
- Los Angeles: He still keeps a $17 million mansion in the San Fernando Valley. He’s practically neighbors with Matthew Stafford.
- Real Estate: He’s been quietly diversifying into development companies.
Does He Still Train Like a Freak?
Yes.
If you follow him on social media or catch snippets from his training partners, you know the "retirement body" didn't happen. He’s still doing those terrifying six-day splits. Actually, current Rams players like Jared Verse have gone on record saying they still look to Donald for the blueprint.
He’s been a frequent visitor at the Rams’ practice facility. He doesn't coach—not officially, anyway—but he acts as a "resource." Younger guys reach out to him to watch film or even head over to his house for a workout. If you've seen the videos of his "AD99" training sessions, you know those guys usually leave looking like they’ve seen a ghost. He still eats roughly 5,000 calories a day to maintain that frame. It’s a lot of lean fish, protein smoothies, and popcorn.
The AD99 Solutions Foundation
Giving back isn't a PR stunt for him. The AD99 Solutions Foundation is probably what he’d say is his most important work right now. He’s focused on underprivileged kids in Pittsburgh, providing them with academic help and athletic resources. In 2025, Pitt even retired his #97 jersey, and he’s donated millions to the program. The "Aaron Donald Football Performance Center" at Pitt is a constant reminder of his presence there.
What Most People Get Wrong About His "Return"
Every time the Rams have a bad game or a playoff run starts, Twitter (or X, whatever) explodes with "Is Aaron Donald coming back?"
Let’s be real: He’s done.
He’s said he feels "complete." He’s got four kids, a wife, and a body that finally doesn't have to hurt every Monday morning. He’s watching the games as a fan now. He stays in touch with McVay and the guys, but the itch to put on pads seems to be gone. He’d rather be a dad and a CEO than a defensive tackle.
Practical Next Steps for Fans
If you want to keep up with what Aaron Donald is doing now without falling for the "comeback" rumors, here is how you actually track his post-NFL journey:
- Follow AD99 Solutions: If you want to see his community impact, their social channels show the actual work he’s doing on the ground in Pittsburgh.
- Watch the 2026 ESPYs: With his new partnership with Fanatics Studios, expect to see him involved in the production side of major sports media events this year.
- Check the College HOF Ceremony: Mark December 8, 2026, on your calendar. That’s when he’ll officially be inducted in Las Vegas.
- Look for Ready Nutrition Events: He often does "grassroots" appearances for the brand at youth sports tournaments.
Aaron Donald has successfully navigated the hardest part of being a pro athlete: the "What's next?" phase. He didn't lose his identity when he lost the jersey. He just traded one type of dominance for another.