Aaron Donald may have stepped away from football, but his connection to the Los Angeles Rams—and to some of the team’s rising stars—remains as strong as ever.
A year after his surprise retirement, the Rams legend recently poked fun at wide receiver Puka Nacua in a playful Instagram video. Wearing a long-haired wig and admiring himself in a mirror, Donald joked about dressing up as Nacua for Halloween.
Aaron Donald going as Los Angeles Rams WR For Halloween
“I’m gonna be Puka for Halloween this year,” Donald said with a smile. “I’m gonna get a jersey and be Puka Nacua.” He even teased a reunion with the second-year receiver: “I’ll see you in Maui,” Donald added.
The moment offered a glimpse into the chemistry Donald and Nacua built during their lone season as teammates. Despite playing on opposite sides of the ball, the bond between the two was clear—and mutual. Nacua has spoken of his admiration for Donald’s career and legacy, sharing his hope of leaving a similar impact in Los Angeles.
Donald, now 33, has consistently shut down any rumors of a comeback, insisting he accomplished everything he set out to in his 10-year career. Still, he has remained close to the Rams organization and continues to be a visible figure around the team.
And if things go the way Los Angeles hopes in 2025, Donald might not be the only one dressing up as Nacua this Halloween.
Following the departure of Cooper Kupp in March, LA made a clear statement: Nacua is now the team’s top receiving option. While veteran star Davante Adams joined the team in free agency, the Rams believe it’s the 23-year-old Nacua who best complements quarterback Matthew Stafford’s style and timing.
After earning Pro Bowl and second-team All-Pro honors in his rookie year, Nacua appeared in only 11 games in 2024 due to setbacks—a knee injury in the opener that led to a stint on injured reserve, and a late-season suspension. Despite those absences, the Rams’ confidence in him hasn’t wavered.
The team’s actions show they believe in Nacua’s future as a franchise cornerstone. He may have once shared a locker room with one of the greatest defenders in NFL history, but now the spotlight is his to claim.
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