Former Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald recalled an interesting conversation with then-San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers back in his 2014 rookie year.
Aaron Donald announced his retirement from football in March after an illustrious 10-year career, spent entirely with the Rams. The 10-time Pro Bowler and three-time Defensive Player of the Year led LA to two NFC Championship banners and a Super Bowl 56 victory in the 2021 season.
Donald was unquestionably the greatest defensive player of his era. Some may argue that he was the best non-QB during his 10-year career as well, and there’s a case to be made that he’s the GOAT of defensive players.
During his appearance on “The Pivot Podcast”, Aaron Donald recalled an eerie prediction Rivers made to him when the Rams and Chargers met in 2014. And that prediction from Rivers turned out to be awfully accurate:
“My rookie year we played the Chargers and Rivers came up to me after the game, shook my hand and said, ‘You’re going to be a monster in this league, you’re going to be a special player,’ those type of words. I said I appreciate it'”
The Chargers went on to win that game 27-24, but Donald made his mark with one sack and two tackles for loss. The Pittsburgh product went on to win Defensive Rookie of the Year honors, recording nine sacks and two forced fumbles.
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Donald and Rivers would square off one final time in 2018, the latter’s penultimate year with the Los Angeles Chargers. In the first “Battle of Los Angeles” between the two teams following relocation, the Rams won 35-23.
Aaron Donald Could Easily Continue Playing
Donald considered retiring after helping the Rams to a Super Bowl 56 championship, but the future Hall of Famer decided to play two more years. His retirement wasn’t that shocking, and nobody can blame him for walking away if his passion for playing is no longer there.
But Donald showed last year that he’s still at the top of his game and could easily go for several more years. If he decides he misses football, don’t be surprised if the future Canton member decides to return.
