After a decade of dominance in the NFL, Aaron Donald officially retired on March 15, 2024, but rumors of a potential return lingered.
However, it seems clear now that the 33-year-old has no plans to come back, thanks to a recent hint from his wife, Erica Donald.
La Rams show off Lombardi Trophy at Super Bowl rally
On Sunday, Erica posted a playful Instagram story showing Donald peacefully napping on the couch, appearing content and relaxed. The video, accompanied by a lighthearted caption, seems to address the ongoing speculation about his return to football, signaling that Aaron is thoroughly enjoying his retirement and is unlikely to reconsider.
“For people are still asking if you’re coming back,” she said. “Alright guys, hope that answers your question because he is not.”
Rumors about Donald‘s retirement began even before this year. Following the Los Angeles Rams‘ Super Bowl win in 2022, many thought he might hang up his cleats then.
Instead, Donald surprised everyone by signing a three-year, $95 million contract extension. But despite that deal, he opted to walk away from the game after the 2023 season, leaving fans wondering if he might change his mind.
This marks the first season the Rams will play without their defensive superstar, who recorded eight sacks and 53 tackles in his final campaign. To help fill the void, the team drafted Jared Verse and Braden Fiske in 2024, but their first game without Donald resulted in a 26-20 loss to the Detroit Lions.
His NFL journey
Selected 13th overall in 2014, Donald quickly established himself as one of the league’s most feared defenders. His accolades include 10 Pro Bowl selections, three Defensive Player of the Year awards, and eight All-Pro honors.
Despite still performing at a high level, Donald decided to retire not just due to age but because he felt a sense of fulfillment, having achieved everything he set out to in his career. Some also speculate that his decision was influenced by concerns for his long-term health.
“For 10 years, I have been fortunate enough to play the game at the highest level,” he said back in March. “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.”
