Los Angeles Rams defensive end and future Hall of Famer Aaron Donald shocked the NFL world on Friday when he announced his retirement from the NFL.
The 32-year-old Donald took to X following his retirement announcement to thank the Rams and all of the fans in a heartfelt message.
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“For 10 years, I have been fortunate to play the game of football at the highest level,” he wrote. “I’m thankful for the people I’ve met along the way, the relationships I’ve built and the things I’ve accomplished with my teammates and individually.
“I would like to thank St. Louis for the love and support during my first two years in the league as a St. Louis Ram, and through my eight years as a Los Angeles Ram. I would like to thank Los Angeles for the love and support throughout my career as well. California has become home to me and my family, and you all made it extra special.
“I would like to thank Mr. Kroenke and his family for building an organization that I was blessed to be part of.
“There are far too many people in the organization to thank specifically, but I will never forget the relationships. I appreciate everyone on the field, off the field and behind the scenes that made my job smooth. I know I’m going to miss my teammates and the camaraderie we had in the building, as well as the coaches who will continue to have a lasting impact on me.”
Donald will retire as one of the all-time great defensive players of all-time with 10 Pro Bowl selections, three NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards, eight first team All-Pro selections, and a Super Bowl championship which he won with the Rams in 2022.
