News that defensive weapon Aaron Donald is considering coming out of retirement sent the league into a frenzy. If the Los Angeles Rams have to rely on star Myles Garrett alone, it would bring relief to many.

“If that man decides to unretire, I feel bad for a lot of people. Especially Young Cats who just not coming in this league and who's going to have a opportunity to win this,” Super Bowl LV champion Leonard Fournette said on June 11. 

Talking to his 4th And South podcast co-host, Jarvis Landry, the former running back relished that Donald will probably stay retired. The former defensive end was a career Rams player and had a dominant run for 10 years. 

He has recorded 111 sacks, a Rams all-time record, and ranked 28th overall in the league’s history. He is a three-time Defensive Player of the Year (2017, 2018, 2020) and received a Pro Bowl invite every year in his career. 

Donald was selected for All-Pro eight times and retired with 337 total tackles. By acquiring Garrett, 30, the Rams have found themselves a defensive player capable of replicating such success. Already a formidable team with a strong offense, the Rams are projected to put out strong competition, thanks to the reigning DPoY. 

Landry, who played for the Cleveland Browns just like Garrett, laughed and agreed when Fournette said blocking Donald was too difficult. The defensive tackle hung up his cleats, citing burnout and losing passion for the sport as his reasons.  

However, the notion of playing along with Garrett must’ve stirred something in him, much to the criticism from his contemporaries. 

Jason Kelce Questions Aaron Donald’s Retirement Plans

Over a week ago, former Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce reacted to the speculations. He shared his take on the New Heights podcast with his brother Travis of the Kansas City Chiefs. 

“What if AD comes out of retirement?” Jason asked his tight end brother. “What if it’s Myles Garrett and AD on the same side on the same team on the same field? That’d be cheating. Roger (Goodell) would have to step in.” 

Kelce feels that if Donald is permitted to play again, the Garrett-Donald duo would be a task to overcome. Garrett set a new record for most sacks by a player in a season with 23. Donald already has a deep friendship and understanding with head coach Sean McVay. 

“If I was still playing O-line in the league, I would start a petition,” Jason quipped. “No. This isn’t allowed. What are we doing here?” 

Whether Donald returns and what the implications will be are unknown. Watching him in action alongside Garrett would be a feast. What are your thoughts?

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Written by

Akanksha Biradar