Rams DT Aaron Donald Says He Never Considered Retirement This Offseason

Los Angeles Rams star defensive lineman Aaron Donald said in a press conference on Wednesday that he didn't think about retiring this offseason despite speculation

For the last two offseasons, rumors about Los Angeles Rams star defensive lineman Aaron Donald retiring have swirled. 

After all, Donald, who turns 32 later this month, has basically nothing left to prove in the NFL. He has been to the Pro Bowl nine times in as many seasons, been a first-team All-Pro seven times, won Defensive Player of the Year three times and led his team to a Super Bowl LVI victory last February. Even if he retired today, Donald would still go down as one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history.

However, the star defender isn't done just yet. Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Donald said he never thought of retirement this offseason.

"Not really, honestly," Donald said. "(You) never want to end your career how it was last year, so it never really crossed my mind. I was just trying to do everything I can to get myself up and to be here today."

The 2022 season was a rough one for Donald and the Rams in general. After only missing two games in his entire career, Donald missed the final six games of the season due to an ankle injury. He finished the season with career-lows in tackles for loss with 10 and sacks with five. L.A. struggled with injuries throughout a miserable 5-12 campaign, but Donald's was arguably the most impactful. 

The Rams are heading into a retooling period after going all-in for several years, but Donald remains just as invested as ever. The lineman added that he's looking forward to being a leader for the many new faces on the Rams' defense. 

"I made a commitment to this organization to do everything I can to do my part, but obviously it's different than what we've seen in the past few years," Donald said. "But a lot of young guys are going to have to step up, have to be a huge part to helping us have success. So it's going to be a long journey, but you just got to stay focused on what you need to focus on and continue to work."

Even as the Rams enter a potentially tough period, Donald will provide some stability as long as he's in L.A.

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