The Los Angeles Rams lost one of their greatest players in franchise history when Aaron Donald announced his retirement after an outstanding 10-season career.
Donald considered retiring after the 2022 season but decided to stay for one more year. The future Hall of Famer said last March that he finally went through with the decision after realizing his passion for football was no longer there.
Although he’s retired from the game, Donald is only 33 years old and could easily make a comeback if he wanted to. Some around the league believe he could return to the Rams this year for a playoff run, similar to what Eric Weddle did in the 2021 season.
However, during a recent appearance on the “25/10Show,” hosted by former Philadelphia Eagles teammates LeSean McCoy and DeSean Jackson, Donald reiterated that he has no plans to come back from his career:
“It’s good, man. Staying busy, obviously. For life after football, building an empire, being with family. But overall, I feel good. No doubts, nothing. I know the whole world is talking about, ‘He could come back for a playoff run if the Rams make it.’ But I’m done. I’ve made my peace with everything.”
It’s hard to blame Donald for not wanting to return, especially after he has already achieved practically everything possible and given his all for football.
Donald made the Pro Bowl in all ten NFL seasons with the Rams, was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year three times, and was selected to the All-Pro first team eight times.
Donald recorded 543 tackles, 111 sacks, 176 tackles for loss and 24 forced fumbles in his career with the Rams, helping the team win Super Bowl LVI against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Rams general manager Les Snead had previously stated that he would keep the door open for Donald if he wanted to come out of retirement, but does not expect that to happen.
Rams video: Aaron Donald defeats LeSean McCoy in the race
After the interview, McCoy challenged Donald to a race and lost. In most cases, a running back should have no problem beating a defensive tackle in a race.
However, Donald is not a typical defensive tackle, as his speed and strength made him one of the most talented athletes in NFL history.
Donald’s win is even more impressive considering he was faster than McCoy in jeans. McCoy challenged Donald to a rematch, so it will be interesting to see if the Rams legend can beat him again.
