After 10 seasons in the NFL, Aaron Donald made a big announcement on March 15, 2024. “For 10 years, I have been fortunate enough to play the game at the highest level. 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.”

After this, he retired from the league, bidding goodbye to the Los Angeles Rams. But many still speculated that he might come back in the future seasons. However, now the 33-year-old former defensive lineman’s wife broke the silence on this, clearly hinting that Aaron Donald ain’t coming back.

Was 2023 the end for Aaron Donald?

Aaron Donald’s wife, Erica Donald, recently shared a story on her official Instagram account on September 8, 2024. In the story video, the former NFL player can be seen sleeping on a couch, carefree. As Erica made the video while her husband was sleeping, she said, “For people are still asking if you’re coming back. Alright guys, hope that answers your question because he is not.”

Now, many people think this rumor of him coming back started when he retired this year. But it is half true! Actually when Aaron Donald led the Rams to Super Bowl victory in 2022, many speculated about this retirement scene for the athlete at that time as well. However, the 33YO shocked them with a new three-year, $95 million extension that offseason. But then, despite the contract, he retired from the league. Hence, it is obvious for the fans to think about his return.

Nevertheless, this 2024 season is the first for the Rams without their star player, who posted eight sacks and 53 tackles in 2023. In order to help supplement the loss of Donald upfront, “the team selected pass rusher Jared Verse and defensive tackle Braden Fiske” in the 2024 NFL Draft. However, unfortunately, the first game of the season resulted in the team’s loss to the Lions 26-20.

Why does Aaron Donald not want to come back to the NFL?

Aaron Donald’s NFL journey is nothing short of legendary. Drafted 13th overall in 2014, he became one of the most feared defensive players in the league. Ten Pro Bowl selections, three Defensive Player of the Year awards, and eight All-Pro selections – it’s hard to top that. But after 10 intense seasons, the toll of the game caught up with him. But why did he retire, despite his good form? Actually, Donald didn’t just retire because of age, but because the fire that once fueled him began to fade.

He admitted he felt “complete,” having accomplished everything he set out to do. But many also speculate that it must be related to his health. Nevertheless, losing him left a massive hole in the Rams’ defense. They brought in Braden Fiske, but even the team knew you can’t just replace a force like Donald. And that’s why, the Rams shifted their strategy, relying more on their secondary angles.

And now, Donald just sometimes spends time with the team in their training camps.