‘The fact is, when you look back on all this now as a 34-year-old man, you really have to pinch yourself.’
Aaron Donald is one of the all-time greats. He’ll go down as not only one of the best defenders of his generation, but one of the greatest players to ever step foot on an NFL field.
And he accomplished everything he set out to do in just 10 short years. Defensive Rookie of the Year, eight first-team All-Pro selections, 10 Pro Bowls, three Defensive Player of the Year awards and most importantly, a Super Bowl ring.
All that didn’t happen because he’s some rare athlete with incredible god-given abilities, as Les Snead often says. It’s because he worked harder than everyone else for his entire career – even going back to high school.
With his number being retired at Pitt this weekend, Donald penned a letter to his younger self for The Players’ Tribune, recounting all the workouts, Wendy’s cheeseburgers and accolades from throughout his career. It’s full of funny memories and insightful stories from his football life, going from a kid in Pittsburgh who didn’t get on a plane until his freshman year in college to retiring at 32.
You transformed from a shy kid into a Super Bowl champ. Into a father of 4 beautiful kids. Into a guy they call “legend.”
You didn’t just live your dream of playing in the league and being a guy.
You become one of those guys.
So at 32, just walk away.
You have nothing left to prove.
Do it like Barry did it.
Let them miss you.
Donald left the game on his terms and has no regrets, spending time with his family and pursuing new business ventures outside of football – while still keeping a close eye on (and rooting for) the Los Angeles Rams.
And when they keep texting you, “You sure you don’t want a second ring, big dog?”
Just text back, “I’m at peace bro. I’m good.”
“You sure???”
“Man I gotta go out in the driveway and practice volleyball with my daughter, bro. That’s all YOU.”
Donald’s entire letter is heartfelt, motivational and gives you an idea of what his journey to the peak was like. It’s worth your time.
