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NFL Legend Aaron Donald Says He'll End Retirement If 1 Player Joins Rams

Originally posted on The Spun | By Daniel Bates | Last updated Aug 6, 2025 2:43 PM ET

So you're saying there's a chance...

It's been just over a year since Aaron Donald announced his retirement from the NFL after enjoying one of the most dominant careers in league history.

From the time he set foot in St. Louis as a rookie, to the time he left the game in Los Angeles, Donald racked up 10 consecutive Pro Bowl appearances, three Defensive Player of the Year awards, eight first-team All-Pro selections, and the Rams' first Super Bowl trophy since "The Greatest Show on Turf."

Someone who's enjoyed similar success over their first four years in the National Football League is Cowboys defensive end Micah Parsons. And after requesting a trade out of Dallas last week, he seems to have lit a fire in the retired all-time great.

After a picture began circulating around Instagram depicting Micah in an LA Rams uniform, Donald commented on the post and hinted toward possibly getting back out on the field if Parsons were to suit up for the blue and gold.

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"If [Parsons goes] to the Rams I might have to ... get in football shape," Donald said. "Wit that Dline would be unreal."

Donald's comment caught the attention of Parsons himself, who instantly replied: "man!!! Don't tell me info like that!!" before tagging his agent David Mulugheta.

Micah continues to sit out at Cowboys training camp as he and the team's ownership remain far apart on a long-term deal. After months of negotiations and contract talks, the 26-year-old finally reached his breaking point and requested a trade out of Dallas on Friday.

Micah Parsons #11 of the Dallas Cowboys celebrates after a sack. (Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images)Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images

"I no longer want to play for the Dallas Cowboys," the four-time Pro Bowler shared to X. "My trade request has been submitted to Stephen Jones personally. ... I did everything I could to show that I wanted to be a Cowboy and wear the star on my helmet. I wanted to play in front of the best fans in sports and make this Americas team once again. ... Unfortunately I no longer want to be here."

It remains unclear whether or not the Rams would be willing to make the necessary investment it would take to get Micah to Hollywood, but any pass rush that has Aaron Donald, Micah Parsons and Jared Verse in it would not be one opposing offenses would want any part of.

We'll see if the franchise calls Donald's bluff by making the move, or goes all in on Super Bowl contention in the big 2025.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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