McDuffie, who was seeking massive extension, was traded by the Chiefs to the Rams, returning to Southern California, where he played his high school ball. He proceeded to sign a market-setting contract with L.A. It was a tidal wave of a splash made by Snead and Co., but the Rams weren’t close to being done.

In came Garrett, and, on Sunday, Donald came out of retirement and signed a one-year pact with his old squad.

“When that news broke, and we kinda heard what was happening, I think everybody’s eyes kinda got wide,” McDuffie said. “There were a lot of smiles going on. Like I said, we’re welcoming him back with open arms. We’re just excited to see him get back on that field, because you know as well as I do, that man’s a threat.”

Donald hasn’t played since 2023, but it was his 10th Pro Bowl season in 10 years. He also won AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year hardware an astounding three times and helped the Rams win a Super Bowl to cap the 2021 season.

So, far, Donald hasn’t ceased to impress McDuffie with his approach and readiness.

“He’s one of those guys, everybody will say it, he comes ready,” McDuffie told Siciliano. “Ready to win. Double lift days. Spending extra time, just getting back into football shape and learning this new playbook, but I know for me personally, just having a vet to come in here and knowing who he is, knowing what he’s about, I think everybody around here is excited to bring him back and welcome him with open arms.”

The unbelievable nature of McDuffie’s brief Rams tenure is just getting going.

Los Angeles will open up its season next week against the rival San Francisco 49ers in the NFL’s first-ever regular-season game in Australia.

The 25-year-old has never ventured to Australia and never expected to, but since joining the Rams, expecting the unexpected seems to be the theme.

“That is one place I didn’t ever think I would get to, but now that we’re playing there, I’m happy I am,” McDuffie said.

McDuffie and the Rams kick off their season in historic fashion against the 49ers at 8:35 p.m. ET, Sept. 10, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in East Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, streaming on Netflix.