Aaron Donald’s Potential Return Alarms NFC Quarterbacks

Aaron Donald, the former three-time Defensive Player of the Year, is considering a return to the Los Angeles Rams, creating concern among NFC West’s quarterbacks. Retired for the past two years, Donald’s interest in a comeback was sparked by the Rams acquiring sack leader Myles Garrett earlier this offseason.

If Donald decides to return, quarterbacks across the NFC will face the dual challenge of contending with both Donald and Garrett. The situation unsettles not only NFC West quarterbacks like San Francisco’s Brock Purdy, Seattle’s Sam Darnold, and Arizona’s Jacoby Brissett but also others like Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff.

Goff, a former teammate of Donald’s, shared his apprehensions on the “Green Light With Chris Long” podcast. Reflecting on his experience, Goff admitted he is not eager to face Donald in a potential playoff matchup. The prospect of Donald returning to the field makes Goff uneasy about encountering him in high-stakes games.

Long asked Goff how many plays Donald might participate in if he rejoins, to which Goff humorously replied, “Hopefully zero.” He remarked on how he celebrated the Lions’ playoff win over the Rams and thought he wouldn’t have to face Donald again. But with speculation about Donald’s return, Goff acknowledged Donald’s potential impact on the Rams, describing him as a significant asset for the team.

During their time together with the Rams from 2016 to 2020, Goff and Donald led the team to three playoff appearances and one Super Bowl showing. Since being traded to Detroit in 2021, Goff has faced Donald and the Rams twice, holding a 1-1 record. His sole victory came in a 24-23 playoff triumph in 2023, marking Donald’s last game before his retirement announcement.