The Los Angeles Rams had a disappointing 2023 season, falling short of the playoffs and leaving their Super Bowl aspirations unfulfilled once again. The Rams team was dealt another blow when their seasoned player of 10 seasons, Aaron Donald, announced his retirement, drawing admiration from NBA legend LeBron James.
After his decision to hang up his cleats, the former Rams star opened up about his NFL legacy and the special connection he forged with head coach Sean McVay over the years.
Aaron Donald talks on bond with Sean McVay
Aaron Donald opened up in an exclusive interview conducted at his childhood home in Pittsburgh, alongside his wife Erica. He reflected on his relationship with Rams head coach Sean McVay during the interview, describing it as something special, extending far beyond the confines of football.
“The relationship, the bond we got is special. It’s beyond football,” he said.
Later, the former Rams’ player expressed gratitude towards McVay, acknowledging the coach’s unwavering support both on and off the field. He recounted instances where the Rams’ head coach checked in on him and offered support without hesitation.
“All the personal stuff that was going on, he helped me with a lot of stuff too…in football that’s like that’s real love. So even if it was a phone call, you good? Or he just came to the office to check on me.”
Donald’s NFL journey began in 2014, when he was selected by the Rams as the 13th overall pick in the NFL draft. Since McVay’s arrival in 2017, the bond between coach and player has flourished, contributing significantly to the team’s success on the field.
Over the course of seven seasons under McVay’s leadership, Donald and the Rams achieved remarkable feats, including two NFC championships and a Super Bowl victory in 2022. Their strong bond off the field undoubtedly played a crucial role in translating into on-field success for the team.
Aaron Donald explains NFL Legacy
Aaron Donald’s decision to retire came as a surprise to many Rams fans, especially considering the recent restructuring of his contract to free up cap space for the team. In an interview alongside his wife, the retired player reflected on his legacy in the NFL, expressing a sense of fulfillment and readiness to transition into the next phase of his life.
The 32-year-old described feeling “burnt out” and “complete,” indicating that it was time for him to step away from football and explore new opportunities.
“I’m just, I’m burnt out. The best way to say it is I’m full, I’m complete. I’m satisfied with what I was able to do in 10 years. I think it’s time for me at 32 years old to retire from football and jump into the next step of my career, my life. Now it’s time to move on.”
Throughout his remarkable career, Donald has amassed numerous accolades, including the Defensive Rookie of the Year award, three Defensive Player of the Year awards, and 10 Pro Bowl selections. His contributions to the Rams’ success earned him eight First Team All-Pro nods, per Bleacher Report.
His retirement undoubtedly leaves a void in the Rams’ lineup. His dedication to the game will be sorely missed, setting a standard that will be challenging for any successor to replicate.
