The San Francisco 49ers were already set to enter the 2026 season as divisional underdogs. Both the Seattle Seahawks and Los Angeles Rams are projected to best them, just like they did last year.
Now, the Niners' path to divisional supremacy just got even tougher, as legendary defensive lineman Aaron Donald is reportedly coming out of retirement to rejoin his former squad.
Donald joins Myles Garrett and Trent McDuffie as new additions to an already-stout Los Angeles defensive unit. It's difficult to determine where the 49ers have the upper hand when comparing the two defenses player by player. Other than All-Pro linebacker Fred Warner, the Rams seem to have the edge at every single position.
As a result, the 49ers will assume a "little brother" role in the NFC West, where a divisional title will be more of an upset than an expectation.
Rams have made it nearly impossible for 49ers to win division
The addition of Aaron Donald will only make the Rams even heavier Super Bowl favorites, as they were already the frontrunners to hoist the Vince Lombardi Trophy in February.
Donald's reunion has been rumored for months, and while it's a bit surprising he waited until this close to the season, there is no doubt he will be in playing shape by the time he hits the field.
Donald's return to the league adds another obstacle for the red and gold, as they have already battled injuries and wild headlines all summer long. For the duration of camp, they have been their own worst enemies. It's reasonable to wonder whether they will be able to field a team capable of competing against Sean McVay's juggernaut.
The Rams' offense arguably looks superior on paper as well. They bring back last year's MVP, along with superstar receiver Puka Nacua, Davante Adams, and running back Kyren Williams. There truly is no weak spot.
Los Angeles seems to be on a mission this year, and they will present an immediate threat to a Niners team that looks inferior in comparison. San Francisco will find out immediately whether or not they can compete, as they travel to Melbourne, Australia to face off against their division rival in Week 1. If nothing else, the contest will provide Kyle Shanahan's squad with an instant litmus test as to how they will fare for the rest of the season.
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