The Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald announced his retirement Friday after 10 seasons in the NFL.
In 10 seasons, Donald was a three-time Defensive Player of the Year, an eight-time first-team All-Pro, a 10-time Pro Bowl selection and the 2014 Defensive Rookie of the Year. He finished his career with 111 sacks, the second-most among primary defensive tackles in a career (behind John Randle’s 137.5)
One of the most feared defensive player of his time. Teams made it a point each week to know where he was and how to scheme against him. Always a team guy it made him a great teammate as well. Donald had this to say;
“Throughout my career, I have given my everything to football both mentally and physically — 365 days a year was dedicated to becoming the best possible player I could be,” Donald said on social media. “I respected this game like no other and I’m blessed 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 that for granted.”
For all his time with Donald coach McVay had this to say;
“The great players in our league elevate the people around them and Aaron has modeled the way for our team as long as I’ve been with the Rams,” coach Sean McVay said in a statement. “He’s an elite competitor, someone who leads by example in a way that’s authentic to him, and an exceptional teammate who inspires everyone around him to be the best version of themselves.
“As great of a player he is, he’s an even better person. He is truly one of one and epitomizes everything that’s right about sports. I will forever cherish the memories we’ve made and will always be grateful for how he poured everything into this game and into our team. He’s meant a lot to me personally and to my family.”
The team that he has played his entire career with also had a few words for the soon to be HOFer;
“We are so grateful for Aaron’s dedication to greatness and for leading our franchise on and off the field for the past decade,” Rams owner Stan Kroenke said in a statement. “He has left his mark on generations of football fans and his accomplishments, coupled with his work ethic and passion, continue to inspire his teammates, coaches and athletes across the globe. It is a privilege to have witnessed one of the greatest players of all time and we are proud that Aaron Donald will forever be part of NFL history as a member of the Rams.”
All in all the NFL will miss Donald as no one likes to lose the talent on the field he had. Look forward to seeing what comes next. Good Luck Mr. Donald and your always welcome at EDF.
