On Wednesday, Los Angeles Rams All-Pro defensive tackle Aaron Donald clarified his status for the 2023 season amid speculation he might hang up his cleats.
Earlier this week, Donald’s former teammate, Chris Long, appeared on “The Show” with Peter Schrager, proclaiming his belief that the nine-time Pro Bowler would suit up next season. Donald responded by confirming Long’s suspicions via Twitter.
Donald not only assured Long and Rams fans that he wasn’t retiring but seemed confused that there was any doubt about his return. Perhaps Donald was unaware of the mayhem caused by a one-word change to his Twitter bio over the weekend.
On Sunday, Donald’s profile briefly updated to “former NFL D Lineman for the Rams,” sparking retirement whispers. Shortly after the football world noticed the potential breaking news, the “former” disappeared from Donald’s bio, and all was right in the world.
The Rams finished a miserable 5-12 in defense of their title this season. With a potential rebuild on the horizon in L.A., many believed that could spell the end for Donald, whether he forced his way out or decided to retire.
Long said, at this stage of Donald’s career, he doesn’t “deserve” to go through more down times with the Rams while they re-tool the roster, and he’d “love to see him on the move.”
Whether or not Donald is back with the Rams next season is up for debate, but the 31-year-old has two years remaining on a three-year, $95 million contract, which includes a no-trade clause. There is a potential out after 2023, and after what Donald has done for the organization, it’s hard to believe the Rams would get in his way if he preferred to spend the backend of his career elsewhere.
Like the Rams, Donald had a lackluster year, recording 49 tackles and five sacks in 11 games.
