Topic overview
Briefly
- Aaron Donald has been retired for two years but may return after the Rams acquired Myles Garrett.
- Jared Goff joked he hopes Donald plays zero snaps if he comes back to the Rams.
- NFC West quarterbacks Purdy, Darnold, and Brissett are also unhappy about Donald's potential return.
What happened
The potential return of Aaron Donald to the NFL has sent ripples of concern through the league, particularly among quarterbacks who would have to face him. The three-time Defensive Player of the Year has been retired for two seasons, but the Los Angeles Rams' acquisition of Myles Garrett, the league's reigning sack leader, has apparently rekindled Donald's competitive fire. The prospect of the two dominant defensive linemen playing together has created a scenario that no offense wants to encounter.
Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff, who was teammates with Donald on the Rams from 2016 to 2020, shared his candid thoughts during an appearance on the "Green Light With Chris Long" podcast. When asked how many snaps per game Donald might play if he returns, Goff responded with a joking but telling "Hopefully zero." He elaborated on his feelings, recalling that after the Lions defeated the Rams in a playoff game, he believed he had seen the last of Donald on the field. The possibility of Donald's return has clearly disrupted that sense of relief.
Goff's comments reflect a broader sentiment among NFC quarterbacks. The article notes that San Francisco's Brock Purdy, Seattle's Sam Darnold, and Arizona's Jacoby Brissett are similarly unenthusiastic about the development. The combination of Donald and Garrett on the same defensive line would present an unprecedented challenge for any offensive unit, potentially reshaping the competitive balance within the conference. The Rams' defense, already formidable, would become exponentially more dangerous with both players in the lineup.
During their five years together in Los Angeles, Goff and Donald experienced significant success, including three playoff appearances and a Super Bowl berth. Goff acknowledged Donald's immense talent, stating he "can't say enough good things about him," even as he expressed his desire to avoid facing him. The situation remains fluid, with Donald's return not yet confirmed, but the mere possibility has already generated reactions from former teammates and current rivals alike. The Lions, coming off a successful season, could potentially meet the Rams again in the playoffs, setting up a dramatic reunion between Goff and his former defensive anchor.
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