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Rams defensive lineman Aaron Donald announced to the football world his intentions for 2023. After a brief flirtation with retirement, the All-Pro defender looks ready to return next season.
Donald posted a video of his announcement online, causing a flood of reactions online.
Los Angeles struggled through the 2022 campaign, posting just five wins a year after winning the Super Bowl. The Rams finished third in the NFC West, missing out on the playoffs.
Much of those struggles can be attributed to injuries. Matt Stafford, Cooper Kupp, and a number of others missed time with setbacks. The quarterback rotation, alone, consisted of Stafford, Baker Mayfield, John Wolford, and Bryce Perkins.
Aaron Donald was one of those stars to hit the sidelines, playing in just 11 of the team’s 17 contests.
Disappointment followed into the offseason as many speculated Donald’s retirement in January. The defender made a change to his Twitter bio that read, “Former NFL d-lineman.”
It was quickly changed back, easing the minds of Los Angeles supporters a bit. On Wednesday, he put any speculation to rest.
Donald posted a video to his Instagram account, which has now gone viral, of himself working out. The clip came along with a message for the football world.
“Your boy’s coming back.”
Somewhere an offensive lineman just started sweating. 🫣
( via IG/aarondonald99 ) pic.twitter.com/DLduJuxQ6O
— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) February 8, 2023
That announcement is sure to strike fear into the hearts of his opponents.
Aaron Donald has been a first-team All-Pro performer in seven of his nine NFL seasons. He’s made the Pro Bowl in each of those campaigns, winning AP Defensive Player of the Year awards on four separate occasions.
Fans were quick to comment on the viral video.
One fan wrote, “Bro is about to make a statement next season.”
Another person said, “Unfinished business.”
The return will give the Rams defense a boost after finishing 21st in the league in points allowed.