'One of One!' Reactions Pour in After Aaron Donald Retirement
After an impressive 10 years in the NFL, future Hall of Famer Aaron Donald announced his retirement on Friday, marking the end of his legendary career.
Over that time, Donald became arguably the greatest defensive player in the history of the NFL, alongside names like Lawrence Taylor, Reggie White, and Dick Butkus.
Following his retirement, Rams head coach Sean McVay, owner Stan Kroenke, general manager Les Snead, and many others shared their thoughts on Donald's impact.
Nov 26, 2023; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald (99) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium.
Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
“The great players in our league elevate the people around them and Aaron has modeled the way for our team as long as I’ve been with the Rams,” Rams head coach Sean McVay said. “He is truly one of one and epitomizes everything that’s right about sports. I will forever cherish the memories we’ve made and will always be grateful for how he poured everything into this game and into our team. He’s meant a lot to me personally and to my family."
In their social media update confirming Donald's retirement, the Los Angeles Rams featured the slogan "Quarterbacks Rejoice."
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray humorously expressed gratitude for Donald's departure from the NFC West on X. Meanwhile, ESPN analyst and former quarterback Robert Griffin III suggested Donald's immediate induction into the Hall of Fame for "changing the game."
Kroenke, who was part of bringing Donald to the Rams back in 2014, also expressed his gratitude.
“We are so grateful for Aaron’s dedication to greatness and for leading our franchise on and off the field for the past decade,” said Kroenke. "It is a privilege to have witnessed one of the greatest players of all time and we are proud that Aaron Donald will forever be part of NFL history as a member of the Rams.”
Many more NFL players, including Jalen Ramsey, Geno Smith, and numerous others, expressed admiration for Aaron Donald's outstanding career achievements.
Donald's successful tenure in the league includes three Defensive Player of the Year awards, a Super Bowl ring, and an impressive ten Pro Bowl selections. And according to Snead, he is one of a kind.
“There will never be another Aaron Donald,” Snead said.
