Former Los Angeles Rams defensive lineman Aaron Donald, who announced his retirement in March, was officially placed on the reserve/retired list by the team on Friday, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.
Donald, a future first-ballot Pro Football Hall of Famer, concluded his decade-long career as one of the NFL’s greatest defensive players. He won the Defensive Player of the Year award three times, was selected to the Pro Bowl every season he played, and earned eight First-Team All-Pro honors. He was also named to the NFL’s 2010s All-Decade team.
During his career, the Rams experienced significant success, making the playoffs five times, winning three NFC West titles, two NFC championships, and one Super Bowl.
Donald ended his career with 111 sacks, including a league-leading 20.5 in 2018, along with 543 tackles, 260 quarterback hits, and 24 forced fumbles. In his final season, he recorded eight sacks, 23 quarterback hits, and 53 tackles, earning First-Team All-Pro honors once more.
Donald shared with his wife, Erica, why he chose to retire in an exclusive interview, stating, “I’m complete. I’m full. The passion to play the game is no longer there. I love football, but the thought of going through another camp and season doesn’t excite me anymore. I’m burnt out and satisfied with what I accomplished. At 32, it’s time to move on to the next chapter of my life.”
While the rest of the NFL, especially the NFC West, might be relieved not to face Donald again, the Rams now face the challenge of moving forward without their key player, who has been a cornerstone of their team since 2014.