The three-time AP NFL defensive player of the year made the unexpected announcement on social media last Friday.

Having been drafted by the Rams in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft, the 32-year-old Donald spent his entire career with the team. Known for his exceptional skills and dominance on the field, he was selected for an astounding 10 Pro Bowl appearances and earned eight All-Pro first-team selections. He also received the honor of being named the league's top defensive player in 2017, 2018, and 2020.

In a statement, Donald expressed his gratitude for his time in the sport, stating, "Throughout my career, I have given my everything to football both mentally and physically - 365 days a year was dedicated to becoming the best possible player I could be." He further added, "I'm blessed to be able to conclude my NFL career with the same franchise that drafted me. Not many people get drafted to a team, win a world championship with that team, and retire with that team. I do not, and will not, take that for granted."

Despite not being the biggest defensive tackle, Donald utilized his extraordinary athleticism and game knowledge to wreak havoc on opposing offenses throughout his career. He became the cornerstone of the Rams defense, drawing frequent double-teams while still managing to accumulate a remarkable franchise-record of 111 sacks, placing him third among active players.

It was after the Rams franchise moved back to Los Angeles in 2016 that Donald truly ascended to the peak of his stardom. In 2018, he achieved a career-high of 20 and a half sacks, ultimately leading the Rams to their first Super Bowl appearance.

Joining an exclusive club, Donald now stands alongside football legends Lawrence Taylor and JJ Watt as the only players to have won the defensive player of the year award three times.

While rumors of retirement had circulated privately for the past two seasons, the Rams and Donald had not publicly acknowledged his departure as a real possibility. Under the terms of a contract renegotiated nearly two years ago, Donald was set to earn over $34 million this season.

As Aaron Donald bids farewell to his illustrious career, his impact on the game of football and the Los Angeles Rams organization will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.