After an impressive ten-year career in the NFL, Aaron Donald has decided to end his career.
The star defensive tackle, who spent his entire storied career with the Los Angeles Rams, shared his retirement plans in a heartfelt social media post on Friday.
“Throughout my career, I have given everything to football, both mentally and physically; I dedicated 365 days a year to becoming the best player I could be,” Donald wrote in a statement.
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Aaron Donald, number 99 of the Los Angeles Rams, watches the game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on September 10, 2023, in Seattle, Washington. The Los Angeles Rams won 30-13. (Alika Jenner/Getty Images)
The three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year also expressed his gratitude for spending his final season, and every other season, wearing a Rams uniform.
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“I respected this game like no other and I am fortunate to be able to conclude my NFL career with the same franchise that drafted me. Not many people get drafted to a team, win a World Championship with that team and retire with that team. “I do not and will not take it for granted,” he said in a statement posted on social media.
Donald finishes his historic career with 111 sacks, 76 tackles for loss and 24 forced fumbles. He was named to ten Pro Bowls and an eight-time All-Pro selection.
Donald was a key part of the Rams team that defeated the Cincinnati Bengals in Super Bowl LVI. He is widely considered one of the best interior linemen in league history and will likely end up in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Aaron Donald, number 99, of the Los Angeles Rams, throws the ball during training camp at the University of California Irvine on July 29, 2022, in Irvine, California. (Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
“We are very grateful for Aaron's dedication to greatness and for leading our franchise on and off the field over the past decade,” Rams owner and president Stan Kroenke said in a statement.
“He has left his mark on generations of football fans and his achievements, along with his work ethic and passion, continue to inspire his teammates, coaches and athletes around the world. It is a privilege to have witnessed one of the greatest players in all”. time and we are proud that Aaron Donald will always be a part of NFL history as a member of the Rams.”
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Donald appeared to contemplate walking away from football after the 2021 season, but ultimately returned to the team with a renegotiated contract. He also flirted with retirement after the 2022 season but ended up returning to Los Angeles and adding another eight sacks to his resume.
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