Los Angeles Rams boasts one of the most compelling and colorful histories in the NFL, spanning eras from the post-war glory of LA to the groundbreaking “Greatest Show on Turf” and the triumphant return to Hollywood.

From the patented “head slap” of a defensive legend to the high-flying artistry of Super Bowl-winning quarterbacks, the team’s archive is rich with brilliance. This ongoing heritage connects players across decades.

The careers of the players whose excellence and impact resonate the loudest represent the absolute peaks of football, and exploring their stories is to truly understand the relentless spirit and soul of a storied NFC powerhouse.

Aaron Donald

The defender who didn’t just dominate a decade, but fundamentally changed the geometry of the game from the interior line. Aaron Donald broke the mold of the traditional defensive tackle, seamlessly blending destructive power with explosive speed and agility.

His impact was so profound that opposing coaches had to dedicate entire game plans to slowing him down—often with little to show for it. He isn’t just a pillar of the modern Los Angeles Rams era, where he culminated his career with a Super Bowl LVI championship and a game-sealing pressure, but one of the rare defensive forces to earn three Defensive Player of the Year awards, elevating the interior pass rush to an elite art form.

Merlin Olsen

Long before football became a Hollywood production filled with special effects, Merlin Olsen was the thinking man’s star anchoring the defensive front. This massive defensive tackle, who impressively held a master’s degree in economics, was the intellectual anchor of the legendary defensive line known as the “Fearsome Foursome”.

His durability and consistency are almost unmatched: he was selected to the Pro Bowl in 14 consecutive seasons, setting a remarkable league record at the time. He didn’t just accumulate statistics; he was the stabilizer, a perpetual threat that allowed his edge rushers, like Deacon Jones, to fly to the quarterback, turning defense into a glamourized spectacle in the original Los Angeles era.

Jackie Slater

The very embodiment of tenacity and longevity, Jackie Slater anchored the Rams’ offensive line across two decades, setting a record for the most seasons played for one franchise by an offensive lineman.

From the early days in Los Angeles to the brief stint in St. Louis, he served as the ultimate protector, shielding over twenty quarterbacks and carving paths for nearly forty running backs.

His unwavering dedication earned him seven Pro Bowl nods and four NFC Offensive Lineman of the Year honors from the NFLPA. His Hall of Fame induction celebrates not only his technical mastery as a tackle, but the enduring work ethic and leadership that defined the Rams’ trenches for a generation.

Eric Dickerson

The iconic image of Eric Dickerson sprinting in his signature goggles and generating his massive, gliding strides became the very signature of the Rams’ 1980s offensive power. In just his second professional season (1984), this Hall of Fame running back established an NFL record that remains untouched: an astonishing 2,105 rushing yards in a single campaign.

From his rookie debut, where he shattered records for yardage and touchdowns, he was more than just a statistical force; he was a cultural phenomenon, a runner who seemed to glide through the defensive secondary, becoming the fastest player in league history to reach the 10,000 career rushing yard milestone.

Deacon Jones

The man who literally named the art of tackling the quarterback: Deacon Jones coined the term “sack”. A raw talent selected in a late 14th round, this defensive end quickly morphed into one of the most feared pass rushers in history, becoming a vital cog in the “Fearsome Foursome”.

His signature move, the infamous “head slap”—a quick, jarring blow to the helmet to disorient a blocker—was so brutally effective and dominant that the league eventually outlawed it. His dominance showcases a player whose will and innovation forced a change in the rulebook, immortalizing him as a true pioneer of defensive havoc.

Marshall Faulk

The blueprint for the modern, multi-tool running back was largely drawn by Marshall Faulk. His arrival in St. Louis provided the final, electric component to the league’s most breathtaking offense.

He wasn’t content being a mere 1,000-yard rusher; he was an elite receiver who blurred positional boundaries, becoming the first player in NFL history to record 1,000 rushing yards and 1,000 receiving yards in the same season.

His unparalleled versatility made him the indispensable centerpiece of the attack that powered the Rams to a Super Bowl XXXIV victory and earned him the prestigious league MVP award.

Kurt Warner

The story of Kurt Warner transcends mere football excellence; it is a legendary comeback of mythic proportions. The ultimate underdog, he went from stocking grocery store shelves to becoming an NFL icon.

After honing his craft in the Arena Football League and NFL Europe, he seized the Rams’ starting role in 1999 and instantly orchestrated the high-scoring engine known as the “Greatest Show on Turf”.

That debut season saw him earn both the league and Super Bowl XXXIV MVP awards, throwing for a Super Bowl record 414 yards in the title game—a high-water mark that stands as one of the game’s greatest passing performances.

Orlando Pace

If the “Greatest Show on Turf” was a finely tuned race car, Orlando Pace was the unbreakable chassis that kept it flying. Selected as the first overall pick in the 1997 Draft, he instantly established himself as the premier left tackle, a critical position tasked with protecting the quarterback’s “blind side”.

His impact was so significant that he is universally credited as the anchor of that historic offensive line, ensuring that both the record-setting passing attack and dynamic running game could operate at a blistering pace.

With seven Pro Bowl selections and multiple All-Pro honors, he solidified his status as one of the game’s best-ever offensive linemen, guaranteeing that the show could always go on.

Roman Gabriel

A physical marvel with an arm to match, Roman Gabriel was the colossal quarterback who defined the Rams’ offense throughout the 1960s. At a time when quarterbacks were rarely over six-foot-four, he stood as a massive presence in the pocket, using his size to shrug off defenders and his strength to deliver passes downfield.

His crowning achievement came in 1969, a season that earned him the NFL MVP Award. He wasn’t just an efficient passer; he was a leader who guided the Rams through a particularly competitive era of the NFC West, becoming a four-time Pro Bowl selection and one of the most beloved figures of the Rams’ pre-Super Bowl history.

Kevin Greene

A relentless, high-motor edge rusher, Kevin Greene embodied the intensity of the Rams’ defense throughout the late 80s and early 90s. Though he would achieve greater sack totals later in his career with other teams, his foundation as a pass-rushing specialist was built in Los Angeles.

He brought a ferocious, non-stop effort to every snap, quickly becoming one of the league’s most prolific sack artists and earning multiple Pro Bowl berths while wearing the Rams horns. His presence signaled the arrival of a new breed of outside linebacker, a player whose sole mission was collapsing the pocket and disrupting the offense.

Isaac Bruce

The wide receiver who helped ignite the original “Greatest Show on Turf” dynasty, Isaac Bruce combined smooth route-running with electric playmaking ability. He was the original cornerstone of the passing attack, the first legitimate deep threat who stayed with the franchise through its move from Los Angeles to St. Louis.

He holds the Rams’ career receiving records in yards and receptions, a testament to his longevity and reliability as a primary target. His unforgettable 73-yard, go-ahead touchdown catch in Super Bowl XXXIV remains the single most iconic moment that secured the franchise’s first Super Bowl title.

Jack Youngblood

A man whose toughness became the stuff of legend, Jack Youngblood was the successor to Deacon Jones and a pillar of the Rams’ defense for over a decade. The quintessential defensive end, he was defined by his tenacity and his iron will.

His most famous feat came in the 1979 playoffs when he played through the entire run to Super Bowl XIV—including the title game—with a fractured fibula. His eight Pro Bowl selections and seven All-Pro nods showcase his regular-season brilliance, but it is that indelible display of grit that immortalized his number 85 in Rams lore.

Torry Holt

The picture of consistency and explosive deep speed, Torry Holt provided the necessary complementary brilliance to Marshall Faulk and Isaac Bruce in the “Greatest Show on Turf” era.

A quiet superstar, Holt was often overshadowed by his high-profile offensive teammates, yet he became one of the most dominant volume receivers of the 2000s.

He achieved an incredible six consecutive seasons with at least 1,300 receiving yards, a feat that underscores his elite production and reliability as a top target for Kurt Warner and beyond. His fluid, effortless play made him the nightmare matchup that opposing defensive coordinators consistently failed to solve.

Cooper Kupp

A testament to elite route running and football intelligence, Cooper Kupp is the modern archetype of the hyper-productive slot receiver. While his career is ongoing, his unforgettable 2021 season stands as one of the most dominant individual campaigns in NFL history.

That year, he achieved the rare receiving “Triple Crown”—leading the league in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns—before capping it with a Super Bowl LVI MVP performance.

His unique connection with Matthew Stafford and his knack for executing clutch plays in the biggest moments have already carved out a permanent, elite place in the Los Angeles football narrative.

Les Richter

A foundational figure in the franchise’s history, Les Richter was a punishing linebacker who came to the Rams with an unprecedented price tag. After the Rams traded eleven players to the Dallas Texans for his rights, he became one of the game’s first true “franchise players” and arguably the greatest linebacker in early Rams history.

He spent his entire nine-year career as a defensive stalwart, being named to eight consecutive Pro Bowls. His aggressive, reliable play defined the defense of the late 1950s and early 60s, establishing a high standard for defensive excellence that would be carried forward by the Fearsome Foursome.

Johnny Hekker

Before the modern era celebrated field position as a high art, there was Johnny Hekker, a punter who became a legitimate, game-changing weapon for the Rams. Far from a mere specialist, he redefined the role with his booming kicks and unparalleled directional control, often pinning opponents deep within their own territory.

He holds the NFL record for most seasons leading the league in net punting average, a testament to his consistent mastery. His athletic ability and flair were also evident in his frequent and surprisingly successful fake punts, which made him an unexpected offensive threat and a fan favorite.

Jack Snow

A key target throughout the 1960s, Jack Snow was the reliable wide receiver who often worked the middle of the field with precision and toughness. While the league featured plenty of outside speedsters, he made his mark with superb hands and an innate understanding of route timing, making him a perennial Pro Bowl selection and a critical asset for quarterbacks like Roman Gabriel. His decade-long presence ensured the Rams always had a dependable receiving threat, even when facing the league’s most aggressive pass rushes of the era.

Fred Dryer

A fierce and intimidating force on the defensive line, Fred Dryer was a versatile defensive end whose impact was felt immediately after he arrived from the Giants.

He was one of the first players in league history to officially be credited with two safeties in a single game, highlighting his knack for explosive, drive-killing plays behind the line of scrimmage.

Playing alongside greats like Jack Youngblood, he brought relentless pressure and became a two-time Pro Bowl selection, defining the hard-nosed defensive style of the Rams throughout the 1970s.

Todd Gurley

A true generational talent who brought electricity back to the running game, Todd Gurley was the offensive centerpiece of the Rams’ resurgence in their return to Los Angeles. His peak run from 2017 to 2018 was a display of sheer dual-threat dominance, seamlessly blending power running with elite receiving skills.

During this stretch, Gurley earned two consecutive First-team All-Pro selections and an Offensive Player of the Year Award. Though his time with the team was brief, his performance was so commanding that he served as the unstoppable engine for the Rams’ 2018 Super Bowl run, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise’s modern history.

Lawrence McCutcheon

The hard-charging, durable running back who defined the Rams’ ground attack of the 1970s, Lawrence McCutcheon was a model of consistency and grit. McCutcheon powered the offense during a period when the Rams secured seven straight division titles.

He strung together five consecutive seasons of rushing for over 1,000 yards, a mark that speaks to his relentless volume and dependability as the focal point of the offense. A five-time Pro Bowl selection, his consistent production served as the steady force that allowed the team’s stellar defense to dominate opposing matchups.

Jerome Bettis

Though his greatest fame came after leaving the team, Jerome Bettis began his Hall of Fame career as a Rams running back, quickly establishing himself as the quintessential power runner known as “The Bus.”

Drafted in the first round, he immediately delivered with a spectacular rookie season that saw him rush for over 1,400 yards and earn both Pro Bowl and Offensive Rookie of the Year honors.

His punishing running style provided a strong, ground-oriented identity for the team in the early 90s, showcasing the raw, powerful talent that would eventually make him one of the league’s most iconic backs.

Aeneas Williams

A Hall of Fame talent who proved his elite versatility on the back end, Aeneas Williams arrived at the Rams late in his career and immediately cemented the defense during the “Greatest Show on Turf” era.

Already established as one of the game’s premier cornerbacks, he transitioned seamlessly to the safety position in St. Louis, showcasing his exceptional instincts and ball-hawking ability.

His presence added the necessary veteran experience and championship-caliber secondary play that helped propel the Rams to another Super Bowl appearance. His defensive leadership was the steel rod that stabilized an otherwise flashy, high-scoring team.

Bob Brown

An absolute mauler on the offensive line, Bob Brown may have only spent two seasons in Los Angeles, but his ferocious impact cemented his status as one of the most physically dominant tackles to ever wear the Rams uniform.

Known across the league as a punishing blocker, he was frequently referred to as “The Most Feared Man in Football,” a testament to his aggressive style and legendary strength.

Though his time was short, his presence anchored the line, lending a brutal, uncompromising edge to the Rams’ offense during his tenure, and he earned a Pro Bowl nod in both of his seasons with the team.

James Lofton

A graceful, explosive deep threat, James Lofton finished his storied Hall of Fame career with a brief but notable stint in Los Angeles. While he was past his peak, his mere presence lent institutional credibility and veteran professionalism to the young receiving corps.

He brought his reputation as one of the sport’s most elegant and consistent wide receivers to the Rams, demonstrating the poise and exceptional route running that had defined his career. His season, however short, serves as a powerful connection point between the team’s classic history and its eventual move to St. Louis.

Tom Mack

The epitome of consistency and quiet dominance on the interior line, Tom Mack spent thirteen seasons as the premier guard for the Los Angeles Rams. A durable and highly technical blocker, he was the steady, immovable force that provided protection and opened running lanes for the team’s potent rushing attacks throughout the late 60s and 70s.

An impressive eleven-time Pro Bowl selection, his excellence was recognized year after year, establishing him as one of the most decorated and dependable interior linemen in franchise history, a true foundation of sustained success.

The Rams’ defensive icon, who retired in 2024, sparked rumors by suggesting he might return to the field. Everything now hinges on the situation involving a player who’s been at the center of NFL conversations. The Rams’ current roster has generated sky-high expectations for the upcoming campaign.

The extension of quarterback Matthew Stafford solidifies his role as the offensive leader, while the addition of wide receiver Davante Adams boosts Los Angeles’ ambitions of making a deep playoff run. The contract extension for Kyren Williams might not be the only good news, potential defensive moves could pave the way for Donald‘s comeback.

What could motivate Donald’s return?

Micah Parsons‘ trade request has sent shockwaves through the league and caught the attention of the Rams, who are reportedly interested in acquiring him. In response to the rumors, the veteran Donald said he might return to professional football if Parsons joins the Rams’ defensive unit: “That D-line would be unreal.”

In an Instagram post, Donald commented, “If [Parsons] go to the Rams I might have to … get in football shape.” Parsons replied by tagging his agent and exclaiming, “Man!!! Don’t tell me info like that!!”, a response that showed his excitement and further fueled the speculation.

How would these moves impact the Rams?

With Stafford under contract and locked in as the starting quarterback, Los Angeles is entering a critical window of contention. Adding Parsons to an already promising defensive line featuring Jared Verse, Kobie Turner, and Braden Fiske could turn the Rams into a legitimate Super Bowl contender.

Jalen Carter expressed his admiration for Aaron Donald and shared how much the praise meant to him when asked about the star defender’s comments: “Man, that’s good. I didn’t even see that yet, that’s nice. I always wanted to talk to AD when we played him last year…I don’t even know what to say, man, that’s love, man. If I’m getting it from him, that means something right there.,” as reported by Jason Dumas from 6abc.

The resemblance between Aaron Donald and Jalen Carter is natural, as Aaron Donald has long been the blueprint for success among young players at the position. Jalen Carter, widely regarded as one of the top young players in the NFL this season, has already demonstrated his ability to dominate the line of scrimmage in ways that draw comparisons to Donald.

With his blend of power, technique, and football IQ, Carter has garnered praise across the league, and Donald’s recognition further validates his impressive performance. Carter’s acknowledgment of studying Donald’s game film highlights the profound influence the former Los Angeles Rams superstar continues to have on the next generation.

As Carter continues to excel with the Eagles, Donald’s encouragement adds inspiration for the young defensive tackle to keep pushing his limits. With extraordinary talent and humility, Carter’s potential seems boundless, much like the legendary player he admires so deeply.

Jalen Hurts’ physical condition could determine the Eagles’ NFL season

Jalen Hurts has confirmed he will wear a knee brace following his injury against the Rams. While Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni expressed optimism, stating, “I think he (Jalen Hurts)’s had a good week of practice,” reported Yahoo Sports, it remains uncertain whether Hurts will be at full fitness for the game against the Commanders.

Adding to the pressure, Commanders defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. issued a stern warning to Hurts, suggesting he should avoid running plays, stating that he would be hit like a running back.

Even if the Eagles manage to secure a win, a potential injury to Hurts during the game could prove disastrous for their Super Bowl ambitions. Losing their most influential player would significantly diminish their title chances and could jeopardize Hurts’ long-term continuity if the injury becomes serious.

Retired Rams legend Aaron Donald, widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive players in NFL history, has named Philadelphia Eagles rookie Jalen Carter as his heir apparent. The bold statement came via former NFL running back LeSean McCoy, who shared details of a recent conversation with Donald.

“I had a chance to talk to Aaron Donald yesterday, one of my good friends, one of my best friends…You know what he said? He said, ‘Shady, I’ve been watching football like that in a long time, he said that guy Jalen Carter, bro, my replacement is here,” stated McCoy.

Jalen Carter has made a remarkable impact in his first NFL season, showcasing his strength and skill on the Eagles’ defensive line. Selected ninth overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, Carter’s dominance has drawn comparisons to Aaron Donald, one of the league’s all-time greats. Hearing praise from Donald himself, a three-time Defensive Player of the Year, highlights Carter’s immense potential to become a future star.

While this recognition is a significant milestone for Carter, it also brings added pressure to live up to Donald’s high standards. Donald’s illustrious career set the bar for defensive excellence, and many are eager to see if Carter can follow a similar path. So far, the Eagles’ rookie has shown he is up to the challenge, continuing to grow into a top-tier defensive force.

Are the Eagles the top favorites to reach the Super Bowl this season?

Despite Jalen Hurts likely not being at full strength after his recent injury, the Philadelphia Eagles remain one of the top contenders to reach the Super Bowl this season. Hurts has solidified his status as one of the league’s premier players, while the Eagles’ offensive line continues to rank among the best in football.

On the defensive side, the Eagles have bolstered their roster with standout rookie Jalen Carter, adding strength to their front seven and secondary. This well-rounded roster ensures they can compete in a highly competitive conference loaded with Super Bowl-caliber teams.

The Washington Commanders have proven to be one of the league’s most consistent teams, finishing fourth in the National Conference. Their last meeting with the Eagles on December 26, 2024, ended in a narrow 36-33 victory for Washington, highlighting how competitive this matchup will be.

The Rams‘ strong performance this season suggests that Aaron Donald’s absence has gone unnoticed. Coach McVay, speaking with the media, addressed the strategy used to fill the void left by number 99, emphasizing the collective effort of his team.

“I think it’s always a collaborative effort and really like you said, you never replace somebody like him. I think the ‘one-of-one’ term gets thrown around loosely. He’s really one-of-one. He made a tremendous impact on a lot of guys who are in their second year or their third or fourth year, that are key contributors,” the HC started.

He also added: “I think you wanted to be able to say, ‘Alright, based on the different phases, what do we want it to look like to try to be able to complete that group?’ You’re expecting, like what he’s done, Kobie Turner to be able to take that step just by the way that he works and the way that he impacts and influences his teammates. Bobby Brown III has been outstanding.”

“Then you say, ‘Alright, do you have the ability to add a player like a Braden Fiske who you really like that has some traits and some mental makeup that are similar to what you love about an Aaron or some of these guys that are really disruptive from the interior and then you get a guy like Tyler Davis.’ I’ve been really pleased with that group and I think they’ve only gotten better,“ he also added.

Donald’s legacy with the Rams

Aaron Donald’s story with the Rams is undoubtedly one of the most remarkable in recent years in the NFL. Coming from the Pittsburgh Panthers, the defensive tackle was selected by the St. Louis Rams in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft, spending his first two seasons with the team in St. Louis and the remaining eight in Los Angeles.

With unmatched talent and extraordinary physical attributes, Donald was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year three times (2017, 2018, 2020). Not stopping there, he was also selected to the Pro Bowl 10 times.

However, his greatest achievement came on February 13, 2022, when his Rams defeated Joe Burrow’s Bengals 23-20 to win Super Bowl LVI. The game was played at SoFi Stadium, and it was his teammate Cooper Kupp who ultimately took home the MVP award.

The final stretch for the Rams

The NFC West is currently one of the most competitive divisions in the league, and the Rams are still fighting tooth and nail with their rivals to claim the top spot. To achieve this goal, they will need to secure as many victories as possible from here on out.

First, they will face Aaron Rodgers’ Jets, before taking on the final two games, which are perhaps the most crucial as they are divisional matchups: the first against the Cardinals, followed by the regular season finale against the Seahawks.

Currently, McVay‘s squad holds a record of eight wins and six losses, the same as Seattle. This makes the final game for both teams decisive in determining who will claim the division.

In NFL history, Aaron Donald is widely regarded as one of the best defensive linemans. He astonished everyone with his power and dominance, being an absolut threat for any rival.

Aaron Donald, however, decided to conclude his remarkable career a few months ago. Nevertheless, he could be tempted to return, and several teams could certainly use his help to pursue success.

NFC team designs plan to make Aaron Donald return to football

During this offseason, Aaron Donald decided to announce his retirement after 10 remarkable campaigns. The defensive end won a Super Bowl with the Los Angeles Rams, and it seems like it was all he needed in order to hang the cleats.

Nevertheless, the chance of winning another Vince Lombardi trophy could get him out of retirement. The defensive lineman has said that he’s enjoying retirement, but there’s one team willing to convince him to return.

The Los Angeles Rams want a second run with Aaron Donald on their side. Les Snead, the team’s general manager, has revealed their plans to convince him, and it includes the possibility of winning another Super Bowl.

“I did mention to Aaron that going back to our Super Bowl run, that there was a player by the name of Eric Weddle who kind of jumped into the playoffs,” Snead said. “We signed him to the practice squad and we standard elevated him for four straight games to a Super Bowl championship. So, I did mention if we happen to get to the playoffs again, maybe we’ll circle back and see if the cup’s not quite filled.“

It appears that the Rams are entirely open to Donald’s return. However, it also hinges on the team’s performance in the 2024 season. They would need to make the playoffs to entice him back.

“But that’s just a rumor,” Snead said. “I doubt Aaron’s going to do that. Aaron’s one of those guys where he’s so principled, he might feel uncomfortable that, ‘You know what, I didn’t go through those other 18 [games] with the guys, I’m not sure I can go through the playoffs with them.’ Not sure. We might tempt him. No breaking news here.”

If we talk about dominance in football, Aaron Donald is undoubtedly the first name that comes to mind. The defensive end had a remarkable career with the Rams, posing an absolute threat to all his rivals.

However, everything must come to an end. Earlier this year, Donald made the decision to retire, concluding a successful 10-year career in which he won a Super Bowl with the Rams in 2022.

Aaron Donald passes the baton to an outstanding player in the AFC

Aaron Donald is arguably the standout player of the 2014 NFL Draft class. The defensive tackle exceeded expectations, clinching the Defensive Player of the Year award four times.

In 2022, Donald spearheaded the formidable defense of the Los Angeles Rams to a triumph in Super Bowl LVI. Two years later, he opted to retire, having nothing left to prove to anyone.

Nevertheless, Donald wants to stay connected with football. Now, everyone is searching for his successor, but the 10-time Pro Bowler has already identified who that is.

“If you wanna say that next guy, that defensive player, I would say right now it’s T.J. Watt,” Donald said on the ‘Green Light with Chris Long’ podcast. “If you’re talking about that’s doing it year in, year out, consistently, that’s going to get you 15, 13, damn, 22 sacks. He’s the one that’s been doing it consistently.

“Interceptions every year. Touchdowns. His stats are ridiculous every single year. I feel like he’s that guy to me. I know you’ve got Micah Parsons coming up. Myles Garrett. You’ve got a bunch of good players. But from the time I first saw T.J. Watt to the last year, he’s consistently been dominating in this league. Just a lot of respect for him, and I think he’s that guy.”

Could T.J. Watt become the next Aaron Donald?

Aaron Donald’s words ring true. T.J. Watt entered the league in 2017 as the 30th overall pick. In seven years, he has been selected to the Pro Bowl six times, won the Defensive Player of the Year once, and been the runner-up twice.

Regarding his stats, Watt has definitely become an elite defensive end. In seven seasons, he has hegistered 96.5 sacks, seven interceptions, 27 forced fumbles, and 107 tackles for loss.

With Aaron Donald announcing his retirement from the NFL, the veteran tight end took a moment to praise the star defensive lineman. But Kelce also seized the opportunity to leave the Chiefs’ doors open for Donald.

“Shoutout to AD. Unbelievable career,” Kelce said on the latest episode of his ‘New Heights’ podcast. “If you want to win one more Super Bowl, we’ll probably have some availability somewhere in December.”

Donald, 32, won one ring in his 10-year career with the Los Angeles Rams in 2022, when his team took down the Cincinnati Bengals at SoFi Stadium. He’d been linked with retirement ever since, until he finally decided to hang them up this offseason.

Kelce made his thoughts clear just in case Donald changes his mind once the action returns, as many players tend to find a new team with the season already ongoing.

Aaron Donald rules out coming back to the NFL

It remains to be seen whether Donald suddenly feels like coming back to the gridiron, especially when the postseason draws nearer. His presence would definitely boost the Chiefs’ three-peat aspirations even more, but Donald made it clear he doesn’t plan to come out of retirement.

“I’m complete. I’m full,” Donald said in an interview he posted on social media. “I think the passion to play the game is no longer there for me. I will always love football, but to think about going through another camp and another 17 games, I just don’t have the urge to want to push myself to do that anymore. I’m just, I’m burned out. The best way to say that is I’m full, I’m complete, I’m satisfied with what I was able to do in 10 years… it’s time to move on.”

The Chiefs are looking to further cementing their legacy in the NFL by chasing a third consecutive Super Bowl title, a feat no team has ever accomplished so far. Kansas City isn’t satisfied with being just another dynasty in the league, it wants to be the best to ever do it. So expect the franchise to continue looking for ways to improve ahead of 2024.

Their controversial ‘tush push’ play has become pretty much unstoppable, up to the point where rival coaches complained and tried to get the league to ban it in the offseason.

That wasn’t the case, as it shouldn’t, because it’s just another football play. As a matter of fact, Los Angeles Rams star Aaron Donald believes it’s not unstoppable, although it’s quite difficult to counter.

Aaron Donald Says ‘Tush Push’ Isn’t Unstoppable

“You got to be stout in the middle,” Donald said, per ProFootballTalk. “Obviously, offensive line tries to get as low as you can. I think it all starts from the center you get under his pads and pop him up and then guys crowd the ball. You can stop it, but it is definitely tough.”

Notably, the three-time Defensive Player of the Year will have a chance to put his money where his mouth is on Sunday when they host the reigning NFC champions at SoFi Stadium.

The Eagles are one of just two undefeated teams left in the league, and the Rams better make sure to avoid three-and-short or four-and-short situations. That might be the only way to actually stop that play.

The defensive tackle suffered a season-ending injury early in the campaign, and it took a serious toll on the Rams. Sean McVay’s men didn’t even make the playoffs, finishing third in the NFC West with a 5-12 record.

Donald, however, is preparing to come back stronger. The 32-year-old went under the knife early in the offseason, but that’s not holding back. With the 2023 season drawing nearer, the Rams star warns that he’s never been better.

Aaron Donald says he’s in the best shape of his life

“I’m coming off of ankle surgery this season, so I’m trying to keep my body in top shape, pretty much training Monday through Friday and sometimes Saturdays,” Donald told HauteLiving.com. “I’m in the weight room, conditioning, making sure that I’m able to move how I need to move.

“And honestly, I’m in the best shape of my life. I feel like my strength is where it needs to be. I’m trying to stay away from a lot of fried food, sugars, and things that can cause inflammation, and eat a lot of protein. If I eat certain bad stuff, I just feel like I have to work out. I’ve been doing it for so long that it’s just mental with me now. I grew up a chubby little kid, and I try as hard as I can not to get back to that chubby little kid. I’m scared of that guy [because] I like to take my shirt off and look good. So, I’m trying to make sure that I’m healthy for football, but also for life, period. And right now, my body is looking good.”

It’s not like Donald has anything left to prove at this point. But even after a tough injury, he’s showing his competitive nature to help the Rams get back to the top. With Donald healthy, LA should have reasons for optimism.

Aaron Donald‘s 11 games played in the 2022 NFL season marked his lowest total in nine years. However, Donald’s exceptional talent has been evident throughout his illustrious career, making him a default choice when talking about the best defensive players despite his on-field production not being remarkable.

This benefit has also led to him breaking a record held by Peyton Manning. Donald’s dominance through the years has given him the distinction of being one of only three players in NFL history to win three Defensive Player of the Year awards. Additionally, he has received All-Pro first team honors for an impressive seven consecutive seasons, spanning from 2015 to 2021.

Despite the challenges faced, the 32-year-old defensive tackle remained a player to gameplan for during the 2022 season, recording 11 quarterback hits and five sacks. It was also the first time in his career that he experienced a significant amount of missed playing time due to injury, so it remains to be seen how long he can stay as the first defensive tackle.

Aaron Donald surpasses Peyton Manning in Madden 99 Club selections

The famous game has been releasing some of the grades for the upcoming Madden 24 edition. A feature that is always commented is who are the players receiving a perfect qualification, with some of them being stable selections like Los Angeles Rams star is.

Aaron Donald got a 99 rating for the seventh consecutive year. His recent had him breaking the tie he had with Manning for Madden 99 Club appearances. Manning was able to do it between 2006-2011 seasons while he was playing for the Indianapolis Colts.