Sat Nov 08 03:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Rams Legend Aaron Donald Mentoring Rookie Jared Verse From Retirement

Los Angeles, CA – Even in retirement, Los Angeles Rams legend Aaron Donald is proving he’s still deeply invested in the team’s success, particularly the development of rookie defensive end Jared Verse. Despite hanging up his cleats, Donald has taken on an active mentorship role, providing Verse with invaluable guidance and support.

Verse revealed on the “Fitz & Whit” podcast that Donald regularly reaches out, offering advice and insights to help him improve his game. This mentorship began after Verse’s less-than-stellar performance in Week 1 against the Houston Texans.

“Even after our first game against Houston this season, I didn’t have a great game… So he shot me a text, like, ‘Hey, man, you’ve got to work something off the power,'” Verse shared.

Since then, the two have maintained constant communication, with Donald sending clips and suggestions, even breaking down Verse’s game film. The rookie sought advice on Donald’s signature cross-chop move, a technique that contributed to countless sacks throughout his career.

“[He’s] sending me clips, giving me ideas,” Verse said. “He’s like, ‘Try this, try that. Do this, try this move.’ I’m like, ‘All right, what do you think about this?’ I’d ask him about the cross-chop. He’s like, ‘The cross-chop’s a good move. It takes a while to master.'”

Verse expressed his gratitude for Donald’s mentorship, emphasizing the impact of learning from one of the greatest defensive players of all time.

“Just to know that AD – the best defensive player ever, first-ballot Hall of Famer, all that good stuff – is reaching out to me to make sure I’m taking care of what I have to do and helping me elevate as a player, it’s helping me so much and it clears my mental sometimes, too,” Verse explained.

While a formal coaching role remains uncertain, Donald’s dedication to mentoring Verse showcases his passion for the game and his commitment to the Rams’ future. This unique mentorship offers Verse the opportunity to learn from a legend, even if they never shared the field as teammates.

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