The Los Angeles Rams are adjusting to life without Aaron Donald, who retired earlier this year after a career that included a Super Bowl LVI win and 10 Pro Bowl selections.
Despite no longer being an active player, Donald continues to be involved with football. He most notably worked out with Rams’ second-round draft pick Braden Fiske during the offseason, who is being touted as the heir apparent to Donald.
Donald was also a recent guest on the “25/10Show” that is hosted by former Philadelphia Eagles teammates LeSean McCoy and DeSean Jackson. McCoy challenged Donald to a race and was defeated:
.@CutonDime25 vs @AaronDonald97 in a RACE!!! You won’t believe how it ended! 😂💨#ShadyMcCoy #AaronDonald pic.twitter.com/7R6v6GKvL2
— 25/10Show (@2510show) August 26, 2024
McCoy ran a 4.5 in the 40-yard dash at the 2009 NFL Scouting Combine and was one of the most explosive running backs of his era. Donald ran a 4.68 in 2014 and would go on to establish himself as one of the best defensive players of all-time.
In most cases, a running back should have no trouble defeating a defensive tackle in a race. However, Donald isn’t a typical defensive tackle, as his speed and strength made him one of the most gifted athletes in NFL history.
Donald’s win is even more impressive when considering that he outran McCoy while wearing jeans. McCoy challenged the future Hall of Famer to a rematch, so it will be interesting to see if Donald is able to beat him again.
Rams injury updates
As the Rams finalize their initial 53-man roster for the 2024 season, head coach Sean McVay provided updates on several key players dealing with an injury.
Puka Nacua (knee), Darious Williams (hamstring) and Jonah Jackson (shoulder) are expected to suit up for the team’s Week 1 matchup against the Detroit Lions.
Meanwhile, Rob Havenstein could miss the game with an ankle injury, but he is not expected to be placed on injured reserve.
Havenstein is entering his 10th season with the Rams and will once again be a key part of the offensive line. If he misses Week 1, the team will be without their two starting tackles as Alaric Jackson is serving a two-game suspension.
It was previously reported that Tyler Higbee will remain on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list as he recovers from a torn ACL and MCL. That will cost the nine-year tight end a minimum of four games to begin the season.
