He was ready to call it quits at the end of last year and the several-months-long flow of adreneline that resulted from being world champions helped him talk himself out of retirement. I'm sure some of the Rams players and brass, along with a bit fat new contract helped in the decision as well.
But... When I watch the games, AD doesn't look all that interested in my opinion. I'm pretty sure part of it is being 3-3 and probably not feeling much like a Super Bowl repeat is in the works. No, I think that adreneline has worn off. He's got enough money in the bank after this year to allow for his family to live a great lifestyle for generations to come. This is not me saying there's a lack of effort. I don't think AD has the ability to not go 100% all of the time.
AD has 3 Defensive MVPS, a Super Bowl Champions ring, is only talked about as one of the best defensive players of all time and knows he's a first ballot HOFer.Unless the Rams make it back to the Super Bowl, I think AD is done. And probably even if they did make it back, he's done.
I'm not a mind reader. But, if I had to bet one way or the other. I think he's done after this year. The only caveat is the possibility of him being traded to the Steelers to play a couple of years where he grew up and still has a home. But if that happened, he would be, in essence forcing a trade and what would the Rams really get in return? Certainly not anything of equal value.
The question for me is, what's next for the Rams if and when AD does leave? There is NO replacing him with 1 guy. AD is a once in a lifetime player.
How badly is it going to hurt them team when he's no longer part of it? I hate to think this way. It's been so much fun to have this guy on the team I have supported for 45 years. But, reality is coming and I think sooner, than later. Not to be a "Debbie Downer' or anything.
