Last Friday, legendary Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald announced his retirement from the NFL. One of the greatest defensive players to ever suit up, the 32-year-old called an end to his decade-long career.
There has been speculation that Donald could retire since winning the Super Bowl back in 2022, but even so, Donald had plenty left in the tank if he wanted to continue playing. However, Donald opted to retire.
In a recent social media post on the NFL X page with his wife, Erica Donald, Donald revealed the reasoning behind his retirement.
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“I think the passion to play the game was no longer there for me. I will always love football, but to think about going through another camp, another 17 [game] season, I don’t have the urge to want to push myself to do that anymore. I’m burnt out. The best to say that is I’m full, I’m complete, I’m satisfied with what I was able to do in ten years. I think it’s time for me to retire from football and jump into the next step of my career and my life.”
While the NFL and Rams will miss the caliber of play that Donald brought to the field, he’s undoubtedly had a tremendous career.
During his illustrious career, Donald won three NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards, tied for the most in NFL history with Lawrence Taylor and J.J. Watt. An eight-time first-time All-Pro and a Pro Bowler which he secured every year of his career, few brought more fear into opposing offensive coordinators every week.
From crushing through offensive lines or scaring Geno Smith as he bulldozed toward him, Donald’s impact on the field was unmatched. Many players discussed the impact that Donald had on the field, and many also indicated they thought he would have played for a few more seasons.
Sadly, after 10 seasons of terrorizing opposing quarterbacks, Donald has instead chosen to step away as one of the most accomplished defensive ends in NFL history. We imagine the entirety of the NFC West is happy that they will not have to face off against Donald in the 2024 season and beyond.
Donald will undoubtedly have a gold jacket and bust waiting for him in Canton in five years as he will be eligible to enter the NFL Hall of Fame in 2029. He will go down as one of the best to ever play the game.
Uncommon Knowledge
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Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.