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'''Aaron Donald''' (born May 23, 1991) is an [[American football]] [[defensive tackle]] for the [[Los Angeles Rams]] of the [[National Football League]] (NFL). He played [[college football]] at [[Pittsburgh Panthers football|Pittsburgh]], where he was recognized as a unanimous [[All-America]]n. He was drafted by the Rams with the thirteenth pick in the first round of the [[2014 NFL Draft]]. He has been selected to seven [[Pro Bowl]]s in his seven years into the league, won the [[NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year]] and has been named [[AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year]] three times, having won it back-to-back in 2017 and 2018, and again in 2020. Donald has been cited as one of the greatest defensive tackles of all time.
'''Aaron Charles Donald''' (born May 23, 1991) is an [[American football]] [[defensive tackle]] for the [[Los Angeles Rams]] of the [[National Football League]] (NFL). He played [[college football]] at [[Pittsburgh Panthers football|Pittsburgh]], where he was recognized as a unanimous [[All-America]]n. He was drafted by the Rams with the thirteenth pick in the first round of the [[2014 NFL Draft]]. He has been selected to seven [[Pro Bowl]]s in his seven years into the league, won the [[NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year]] and has been named [[AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year]] three times, having won it back-to-back in 2017 and 2018, and again in 2020. Donald has been cited as one of the greatest defensive tackles of all time.


==Early life==
==Early life==
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On June 16, 2014, the Rams signed Donald to a four-year, fully guaranteed $10.13 million rookie contract. The contract also included a $5.69 million signing bonus and a fifth-year option.<ref name="auto">{{cite web|url=http://www.spotrac.com/nfl/los-angeles-rams/aaron-donald-14422/|title=Sportrac.com:Aaron Donald contract|access-date=October 28, 2016|website=Sportrac.com}}</ref>
On June 16, 2014, the Rams signed Donald to a four-year, fully guaranteed $10.13 million rookie contract. The contract also included a $5.69 million signing bonus and a fifth-year option.<ref name="auto">{{cite web|url=http://www.spotrac.com/nfl/los-angeles-rams/aaron-donald-14422/|title=Sportrac.com:Aaron Donald contract|access-date=October 28, 2016|website=Sportrac.com}}</ref>


On September 7, 2014, Donald made his NFL debut against the [[2014 Minnesota Vikings season|Minnesota Vikings]] and finished the 34–6 loss with four tackles.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201409070ram.htm |title=Minnesota Vikings at St. Louis Rams – September 7th, 2014 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> The following week, he recorded three tackles and his first NFL sack during a 19–17 victory over the [[2014 Tampa Bay Buccaneers season|Tampa Bay Buccaneers]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201409140tam.htm |title=St. Louis Rams at Tampa Bay Buccaneers – September 14th, 2014 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> On October 13, 2014, he was given his first career start against the [[2014 San Francisco 49ers season|San Francisco 49ers]] and finished the game with four solo tackles.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201410130ram.htm |title=San Francisco 49ers at St. Louis Rams – October 13th, 2014 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> After recording 47 tackles, nine sacks, and two forced fumbles, Donald was one of five rookies selected to the [[2015 Pro Bowl]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/ram/2014.htm |title=2014 St. Louis Rams Statistics & Players |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2014/probowl.htm |title=2014 NFL Pro Bowlers |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> Donald won the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award and was named to the NFL All-Rookie Team.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000466462/article/aaron-donald-nets-defensive-rookie-of-the-year-honors?campaign=twitter_atn |title=Aaron Donald nets Defensive Rookie of the Year honors |last=Sessler |first=Marc |date=January 31, 2015 |website=NFL.com |access-date=July 31, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/nfl-all-rookie-2014.htm |title=2014 NFL All-Rookie Team |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref>
On September 7, 2014, Donald made his regular season debut against the [[2014 Minnesota Vikings season|Minnesota Vikings]] and finished the 34–6 loss with four tackles.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201409070ram.htm |title=Minnesota Vikings at St. Louis Rams – September 7th, 2014 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> The following week, he recorded three tackles and his first NFL sack during a 19–17 victory over the [[2014 Tampa Bay Buccaneers season|Tampa Bay Buccaneers]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201409140tam.htm |title=St. Louis Rams at Tampa Bay Buccaneers – September 14th, 2014 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> On October 13, 2014, he was given his first career start against the [[2014 San Francisco 49ers season|San Francisco 49ers]] and finished the game with four solo tackles.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201410130ram.htm |title=San Francisco 49ers at St. Louis Rams – October 13th, 2014 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> After recording 47 tackles, nine sacks, and two forced fumbles, Donald was one of five rookies selected to the [[2015 Pro Bowl]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/ram/2014.htm |title=2014 St. Louis Rams Statistics & Players |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2014/probowl.htm |title=2014 NFL Pro Bowlers |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> Donald won the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award and was named to the NFL All-Rookie Team.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000466462/article/aaron-donald-nets-defensive-rookie-of-the-year-honors?campaign=twitter_atn |title=Aaron Donald nets Defensive Rookie of the Year honors |last=Sessler |first=Marc |date=January 31, 2015 |website=NFL.com |access-date=July 31, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/nfl-all-rookie-2014.htm |title=2014 NFL All-Rookie Team |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref>


===2015 season===
===2015 season===
In 2015, Donald began the season as the Rams' starting defensive tackle. During the season opener against the [[2015 Seattle Seahawks season|Seattle Seahawks]], he recorded a career-high nine total tackles and two sacks, helping the Rams win 34–31 in overtime.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201509130ram.htm |title=Seattle Seahawks at St. Louis Rams – September 13th, 2015 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> He was named NFC Defensive Player of the Week for the first time in his NFL career for his performance.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/09/16/aaron-donald-is-2015s-first-nfc-defensive-player-of-the-week/ |title=Aaron Donald is 2015's first NFC defensive player of the week |last=Alper |first=Josh |date=September 16, 2015 |website=ProFootballTalk |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> On December 13, 2015, Donald made five tackles and a career-high three sacks against the [[2015 Detroit Lions season|Detroit Lions]] in Week 14.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nfl.com/player/aarondonald/2543485/profile|title=NFL Player Profile:Aaron Donald|access-date=October 28, 2016|website=NFL.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/12/aaron_donald_offers_violent_re.html |title=Aaron Donald offers violent reminder of what could have been for Lions |last=Meinke |first=Kyle |website=MLive.com |language=en-US |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> He earned his second NFC Defensive Player of the Week award in 2015 after his performance against the Lions.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2015/12/16/10293346/st-louis-rams-aaron-donald-nfc-defensive-player-of-the-week |title=Rams DT Aaron Donald Named Week 14 NFC DPOW |date=December 16, 2015 |website=Turf Show Times |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref>
In 2015, Donald began the season as the Rams' starting defensive tackle. During the season opener against the [[2015 Seattle Seahawks season|Seattle Seahawks]], he finished with nine total tackles and two sacks, helping the Rams win 34–31 in overtime.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201509130ram.htm |title=Seattle Seahawks at St. Louis Rams – September 13th, 2015 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> He was named NFC Defensive Player of the Week for the first time in his NFL career for his performance.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/09/16/aaron-donald-is-2015s-first-nfc-defensive-player-of-the-week/ |title=Aaron Donald is 2015's first NFC defensive player of the week |last=Alper |first=Josh |date=September 16, 2015 |website=ProFootballTalk |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> On December 13, 2015, Donald made five tackles and a career-high three sacks against the [[2015 Detroit Lions season|Detroit Lions]] in Week 14.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nfl.com/player/aarondonald/2543485/profile|title=NFL Player Profile:Aaron Donald|access-date=October 28, 2016|website=NFL.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/12/aaron_donald_offers_violent_re.html |title=Aaron Donald offers violent reminder of what could have been for Lions |last=Meinke |first=Kyle |website=MLive.com |language=en-US |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> He earned his second NFC Defensive Player of the Week award in 2015 after his performance against the Lions.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2015/12/16/10293346/st-louis-rams-aaron-donald-nfc-defensive-player-of-the-week |title=Rams DT Aaron Donald Named Week 14 NFC DPOW |date=December 16, 2015 |website=Turf Show Times |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref>


Donald started all 16 games and ended the season with 69 tackles, 11 sacks, a pass defended, and a fumble recovery.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/ram/2015.htm |title=2015 St. Louis Rams Statistics & Players |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> He earned a First Team All-Pro nomination for the first time in his NFL career.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2016/1/9/10739378/st-louis-rams-all-pro-aaron-donald-todd-gurley-johnny-hekker |title=Three St. Louis Rams Make 2015 All-Pro Team |last=Broner |first=Tevin |date=January 9, 2016 |website=Turf Show Times |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> He was a [[2016 Pro Bowl|Pro Bowl]] selection for the second consecutive season.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2015/probowl.htm |title=2015 NFL Pro Bowlers |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> He was also ranked 14th by his fellow players on the [[NFL Top 100 Players of 2016]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-top100-2016/0ap3000000671921/Top-100-Players-of-2016-No-14-Aaron-Donald|title='Top 100 Players of 2016': No. 14 Aaron Donald|website=NFL.com}}</ref>
Donald started all 16 games, ending the season with 69 tackles, 11 sacks, a pass defended, and a fumble recovery.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/ram/2015.htm |title=2015 St. Louis Rams Statistics & Players |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> He earned a First Team All-Pro nomination for the first time in his NFL career.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2016/1/9/10739378/st-louis-rams-all-pro-aaron-donald-todd-gurley-johnny-hekker |title=Three St. Louis Rams Make 2015 All-Pro Team |last=Broner |first=Tevin |date=January 9, 2016 |website=Turf Show Times |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> He was a [[2016 Pro Bowl|Pro Bowl]] selection for the second consecutive season.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2015/probowl.htm |title=2015 NFL Pro Bowlers |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> He was also ranked 14th by his fellow players on the [[NFL Top 100 Players of 2016]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-top100-2016/0ap3000000671921/Top-100-Players-of-2016-No-14-Aaron-Donald|title='Top 100 Players of 2016': No. 14 Aaron Donald|website=NFL.com}}</ref>


===2016 season===
===2016 season===
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On August 31, 2018, after holding out all offseason, Donald signed a six-year, $135 million contract extension with $87 million guaranteed.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000957415/article/aaron-donald-agrees-to-6year-135m-deal-with-rams |title=Rams sign Aaron Donald to six-year, $135M extension |last=Teope |first=Herbie |date=August 31, 2018 |website=NFL.com}}</ref> The deal made him the highest paid defensive player in NFL history, although [[Khalil Mack]] signed a $141 million contract with the [[Chicago Bears]] the next day after being traded from the [[Oakland Raiders]].<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000957557/article/bears-expected-to-acquire-khalil-mack-from-raiders |title=Khalil Mack agrees to six-year, $141M Bears deal |last=Patra |first=Kevin |date=September 1, 2018 |work=NFL.com |access-date=September 1, 2018 |language=en}}</ref>
On August 31, 2018, after holding out all offseason, Donald signed a six-year, $135 million contract extension with $87 million guaranteed.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000957415/article/aaron-donald-agrees-to-6year-135m-deal-with-rams |title=Rams sign Aaron Donald to six-year, $135M extension |last=Teope |first=Herbie |date=August 31, 2018 |website=NFL.com}}</ref> The deal made him the highest paid defensive player in NFL history, although [[Khalil Mack]] signed a $141 million contract with the [[Chicago Bears]] the next day after being traded from the [[Oakland Raiders]].<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000957557/article/bears-expected-to-acquire-khalil-mack-from-raiders |title=Khalil Mack agrees to six-year, $141M Bears deal |last=Patra |first=Kevin |date=September 1, 2018 |work=NFL.com |access-date=September 1, 2018 |language=en}}</ref>


During Week 7 against the [[2018 San Francisco 49ers season|San Francisco 49ers]], Donald recorded a career-high four sacks on quarterback [[C. J. Beathard]], along with nine tackles, 6 for a loss, and five quarterback hits in a 39–10 win, earning him NFC Defensive Player of the Week for the fourth time in his career.<ref>{{cite web|title=Cam Newton, Aaron Donald among Players of the Week|url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000977807/article/cam-newton-aaron-donald-among-players-of-the-week|website=NFL.com|date=October 24, 2018}}</ref> Donald was named the NFC Defensive Player of the Month for the month of October after recording eight sacks, 17 tackles, and a forced fumble.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000983085/article/aaron-donald-james-conner-among-players-of-the-month |title=Todd Gurley, James Conner lead players of October |last=Shook |first=Nick |date=November 1, 2018 |website=NFL.com}}</ref> In Week 16, Donald recorded seven tackles (four for a loss) and three sacks in a 31–9 victory over the [[2018 Arizona Cardinals season|Arizona Cardinals]], earning him his fifth NFC Defensive Player of the Week.<ref>{{cite web|title=Nick Foles, Baker Mayfield among NFL Players of the Week|url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001004438/article/nick-foles-baker-mayfield-among-players-of-the-week|website=NFL.com|date=December 26, 2018}}</ref> His three sacks brought his season total to 19.5, which broke the record for most sacks in a season by a defensive tackle, previously held by [[Keith Millard]] with 18.0.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/12/23/aaron-donald-sets-single-season-sack-record-for-defensive-tackles/ |title=Aaron Donald sets single-season sack record for defensive tackles |last=Alper |first=Josh |date=December 23, 2018 |website=Pro Football Talk |publisher=NBC Sports |access-date=December 28, 2018}}</ref> Donald added another sack in Week 17 against the 49ers and finished the season with a league-leading 20.5 sacks.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2018/defense.htm |title=2018 NFL Defense |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201812300ram.htm |title=San Francisco 49ers at Los Angeles Rams – December 30th, 2018 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> Donald was named NFC Defensive Player of the Month for December, his second such award in the season.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.therams.com/news/aaron-donald-named-nfc-defensive-player-of-the-month-for-december?campaign=sf:fanshare:facebook |title=Aaron Donald Named NFC Defensive Player of the Month for December |website=www.therams.com |language=en-US |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref>
During Week 7 against the [[2018 San Francisco 49ers season|San Francisco 49ers]], Donald finished with four sacks on quarterback [[C. J. Beathard]], along with nine tackles, 6 for a loss, and five quarterback hits in a 39–10 win, earning him NFC Defensive Player of the Week for the fourth time in his career.<ref>{{cite web|title=Cam Newton, Aaron Donald among Players of the Week|url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000977807/article/cam-newton-aaron-donald-among-players-of-the-week|website=NFL.com|date=October 24, 2018}}</ref> Donald was named the NFC Defensive Player of the Month for the month of October after recording eight sacks, 17 tackles, and a forced fumble.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000983085/article/aaron-donald-james-conner-among-players-of-the-month |title=Todd Gurley, James Conner lead players of October |last=Shook |first=Nick |date=November 1, 2018 |website=NFL.com}}</ref> In Week 16, Donald recorded seven tackles (four for a loss) and three sacks in a 31–9 victory over the [[2018 Arizona Cardinals season|Arizona Cardinals]], earning him his fifth NFC Defensive Player of the Week.<ref>{{cite web|title=Nick Foles, Baker Mayfield among NFL Players of the Week|url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001004438/article/nick-foles-baker-mayfield-among-players-of-the-week|website=NFL.com|date=December 26, 2018}}</ref> His three sacks brought his season total to 19.5, which broke the record for most sacks in a season by a defensive tackle, previously held by [[Keith Millard]] with 18.0.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2018/12/23/aaron-donald-sets-single-season-sack-record-for-defensive-tackles/ |title=Aaron Donald sets single-season sack record for defensive tackles |last=Alper |first=Josh |date=December 23, 2018 |website=Pro Football Talk |publisher=NBC Sports |access-date=December 28, 2018}}</ref> Donald added another sack in Week 17 against the 49ers and finished the season with a league-leading 20.5 sacks.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2018/defense.htm |title=2018 NFL Defense |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201812300ram.htm |title=San Francisco 49ers at Los Angeles Rams – December 30th, 2018 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> Donald was named NFC Defensive Player of the Month for December, his second such award in the season.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.therams.com/news/aaron-donald-named-nfc-defensive-player-of-the-month-for-december?campaign=sf:fanshare:facebook |title=Aaron Donald Named NFC Defensive Player of the Month for December |website=www.therams.com |language=en-US |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref>


On January 4, 2019, Donald was named to the [[Associated Press|AP]] [[All-Pro]] First Team, being the only unanimous selection.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://theramswire.usatoday.com/2019/01/04/nfl-rams-aaron-donald-todd-gurley-all-pro-selection-2018/ |title=Aaron Donald, Todd Gurley named 2018 first-team All-Pros |last=DaSilva |first=Cameron |date=January 4, 2019 |website=Rams Wire |language=en |access-date=January 14, 2019}}</ref> On February 2, 2019, Donald was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.espn.com/blog/los-angeles-rams/post/_/id/39866/rams-aaron-donald-wins-second-straight-defensive-player-of-year |title=Rams' Aaron Donald wins second straight Defensive Player of Year |last=Thiry |first=Lindsey |date=February 2, 2019 |website=ESPN |language=en |access-date=February 2, 2019}}</ref> Donald joined [[Lawrence Taylor]] and [[J. J. Watt]] as the only players who have won the award in consecutive seasons.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.foxsports.com/west/story/aaron-donald-joins-lawrence-taylor-jj-watt-as-only-back-to-back-defensive-players-of-the-year-los-angeles-rams-020219 |title=Aaron Donald joins Taylor, Watt as only back-to-back Defensive Players of the Year |website=FOX Sports |language=en-US |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> Donald helped the Rams reach [[Super Bowl LIII]] after defeating the [[2018 Dallas Cowboys season|Dallas Cowboys]] in the [[2018–19 NFL playoffs#NFC: Los Angeles Rams 30, Dallas Cowboys 22|Divisional Round]] and the [[2018 New Orleans Saints season|New Orleans Saints]] in the [[2018–19 NFL playoffs#NFC: Los Angeles Rams 26, New Orleans Saints 23 (OT)|NFC Championship]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201901120ram.htm |title=Divisional Round – Dallas Cowboys at Los Angeles Rams – January 12th, 2019 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201901200nor.htm |title=NFC Championship – Los Angeles Rams at New Orleans Saints – January 20th, 2019 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> In the Super Bowl, Donald recorded five tackles but the Rams lost by a score of 13–3 to the [[2018 New England Patriots season|New England Patriots]], with the Patriots offensive linemen (including [[Joe Thuney]]) double teaming Donald in order to neutralize his effectiveness which was cited as a key factor in the result.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201902030ram.htm |title=Super Bowl LIII – Los Angeles Rams vs. New England Patriots – February 3rd, 2019 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://ftw.usatoday.com/2019/01/super-bowl-53-rams-patriots-bill-belichick-aaron-donald |title=How will the Patriots deal with Aaron Donald? By running at him. |last=Ruiz |first=Steven |date=2019-01-28 |website=For The Win |language=en |access-date=2019-07-31}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gpTzVGqBuQ |title=How the Patriots Held the Rams to Three Points in Super Bowl LIII |website=YouTube |language=en |access-date=2019-07-31}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://247sports.com/nfl/new-england-patriots/Article/Joe-Thuney-dominated-Aaron-Donald-on-Patriots-TD-drive--128985869/ |title=Joe Thuney dominated Aaron Donald on Patriots' TD drive |last=Sullivan |first=Tyler |website=New England Patriots |language=en-US |access-date=2019-07-01}}</ref> He was ranked as the best player in the NFL by his peers on the [[NFL Top 100 Players of 2019]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-top100-2019/0ap3000001038326/Top-100-Players-of-2019-Aaron-Donald-No-1 |title='Top 100 Players of 2019': Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald |website=NFL.com |language=en |access-date=2019-08-01}}</ref>
On January 4, 2019, Donald was named to the [[Associated Press|AP]] [[All-Pro]] First Team, being the only unanimous selection.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://theramswire.usatoday.com/2019/01/04/nfl-rams-aaron-donald-todd-gurley-all-pro-selection-2018/ |title=Aaron Donald, Todd Gurley named 2018 first-team All-Pros |last=DaSilva |first=Cameron |date=January 4, 2019 |website=Rams Wire |language=en |access-date=January 14, 2019}}</ref> On February 2, 2019, Donald was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.espn.com/blog/los-angeles-rams/post/_/id/39866/rams-aaron-donald-wins-second-straight-defensive-player-of-year |title=Rams' Aaron Donald wins second straight Defensive Player of Year |last=Thiry |first=Lindsey |date=February 2, 2019 |website=ESPN |language=en |access-date=February 2, 2019}}</ref> Donald joined [[Lawrence Taylor]] and [[J. J. Watt]] as the only players who have won the award in consecutive seasons.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.foxsports.com/west/story/aaron-donald-joins-lawrence-taylor-jj-watt-as-only-back-to-back-defensive-players-of-the-year-los-angeles-rams-020219 |title=Aaron Donald joins Taylor, Watt as only back-to-back Defensive Players of the Year |website=FOX Sports |language=en-US |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> Donald helped the Rams reach [[Super Bowl LIII]] after defeating the [[2018 Dallas Cowboys season|Dallas Cowboys]] in the [[2018–19 NFL playoffs#NFC: Los Angeles Rams 30, Dallas Cowboys 22|Divisional Round]] and the [[2018 New Orleans Saints season|New Orleans Saints]] in the [[2018–19 NFL playoffs#NFC: Los Angeles Rams 26, New Orleans Saints 23 (OT)|NFC Championship]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201901120ram.htm |title=Divisional Round – Dallas Cowboys at Los Angeles Rams – January 12th, 2019 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201901200nor.htm |title=NFC Championship – Los Angeles Rams at New Orleans Saints – January 20th, 2019 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref> In the Super Bowl, Donald recorded five tackles but the Rams lost by a score of 13–3 to the [[2018 New England Patriots season|New England Patriots]], with the Patriots offensive linemen (including [[Joe Thuney]]) double teaming Donald in order to neutralize his effectiveness which was cited as a key factor in the result.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201902030ram.htm |title=Super Bowl LIII – Los Angeles Rams vs. New England Patriots – February 3rd, 2019 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en |access-date=February 11, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://ftw.usatoday.com/2019/01/super-bowl-53-rams-patriots-bill-belichick-aaron-donald |title=How will the Patriots deal with Aaron Donald? By running at him. |last=Ruiz |first=Steven |date=2019-01-28 |website=For The Win |language=en |access-date=2019-07-31}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gpTzVGqBuQ |title=How the Patriots Held the Rams to Three Points in Super Bowl LIII |website=YouTube |language=en |access-date=2019-07-31}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://247sports.com/nfl/new-england-patriots/Article/Joe-Thuney-dominated-Aaron-Donald-on-Patriots-TD-drive--128985869/ |title=Joe Thuney dominated Aaron Donald on Patriots' TD drive |last=Sullivan |first=Tyler |website=New England Patriots |language=en-US |access-date=2019-07-01}}</ref> He was ranked as the best player in the NFL by his peers on the [[NFL Top 100 Players of 2019]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-top100-2019/0ap3000001038326/Top-100-Players-of-2019-Aaron-Donald-No-1 |title='Top 100 Players of 2019': Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald |website=NFL.com |language=en |access-date=2019-08-01}}</ref>

Revision as of 01:14, 13 March 2021

Aaron Donald
refer to caption
Donald with the Los Angeles Rams in 2019
No. 99 – Los Angeles Rams
Position:Defensive tackle
Personal information
Born: (1991-05-23) May 23, 1991 (age 33)
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Height:6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)
Weight:285 lb (129 kg)
Career information
High school:Penn Hills
(Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania)
College:Pittsburgh
NFL draft:2014 / round: 1 / pick: 13
Career history
Roster status:Active
Career highlights and awards
Career NFL statistics as of 2020
Tackles:357
Sacks:85.5
Forced fumbles:19
Fumble recoveries:6
Pass deflections:12
Stats at Pro Football Reference

Aaron Charles Donald (born May 23, 1991) is an American football defensive tackle for the Los Angeles Rams of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at Pittsburgh, where he was recognized as a unanimous All-American. He was drafted by the Rams with the thirteenth pick in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft. He has been selected to seven Pro Bowls in his seven years into the league, won the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year and has been named AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year three times, having won it back-to-back in 2017 and 2018, and again in 2020. Donald has been cited as one of the greatest defensive tackles of all time.

Early life

A native of Pittsburgh, Donald grew up as one of three children in a working-class family in the city's Lincoln–Lemington–Belmar neighborhood. His father Archie introduced Aaron to workouts, seeking to provide more structure in his son's life. Aaron himself would later admit that he was "lazy as a kid". By age 14, he and his father woke up at 4:30 am and worked out for nearly two hours in the basement gym that Archie installed in the family home.[1]

Donald attended Penn Hills High School, where he played high school football for head coach Ron Graham.[2] He was selected first team All-State Class AAAA in each of his final two seasons, and compiled 63 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, and 11 sacks as a senior. He also started at offensive guard.

Considered a three-star prospect by Rivals.com, he was rated as the 37th best defensive tackle in the nation.[3] He committed to hometown Pittsburgh over other scholarship offers from Toledo, Akron, and Rutgers.[4][5]

College career

As a true freshman, Donald played in all 13 games as a reserve defensive end. He recorded 11 tackles, including three for loss, and two sacks.[6] In 2011, as a sophomore, Donald moved into the starting lineup, and turned in a breakout campaign. He recorded 47 tackles, including 16 for loss, 11 sacks and one forced fumble, and was named a second-team All-Big East selection.[7] As a junior, he recorded 64 tackles, including 18.5 for loss, 5.5 sacks, and one forced fumble, earning first-team All-Big East honors.[8] In his senior season, he became one of the most productive defensive players in the entire NCAA. He posted 59 tackles, including a career best 28.5 for loss, 11 sacks, and four forced fumbles. He was named the ACC Defensive Player of the Year and was a unanimous All-American.[9][10]

Statistics

Pittsburgh Panthers
Year GP Tackles For Loss Sacks Int FF
2010 13 11 3 2 0 0
2011 13 45 16 11 0 1
2012 13 64 18.5 5.5 0 1
2013 13 59 28.5 11 0 4
Total 52 181 66 29.5 0 6

Awards and honors

Professional career

Donald at the 2014 NFL Combine

At the NFL Combine, Donald set the record for fastest 40-yard dash time for a defensive tackle with a 4.68. The record previously held by Tank Johnson, who ran a 4.69 in 2004. He drew comparisons to John Randle afterwards.[15] Donald was drafted by the St. Louis Rams in the first round with the 13th overall pick of the 2014 NFL Draft.[16]

Pre-draft measurables
Height Weight Arm length Hand span 40-yard dash 10-yard split 20-yard split 20-yard shuttle Three-cone drill Vertical jump Broad jump Bench press
6 ft 0+3⁄4 in
(1.85 m) 		285 lb
(129 kg) 		32+5⁄8 in
(0.83 m) 		9+7⁄8 in
(0.25 m)		 4.68 s 1.59 s 3.21 s 4.39 s 7.11 s 32 in
(0.81 m)		 9 ft 8 in
(2.95 m)		 35 reps
All values from NFL Combine[17]

2014 season

On June 16, 2014, the Rams signed Donald to a four-year, fully guaranteed $10.13 million rookie contract. The contract also included a $5.69 million signing bonus and a fifth-year option.[18]

On September 7, 2014, Donald made his regular season debut against the Minnesota Vikings and finished the 34–6 loss with four tackles.[19] The following week, he recorded three tackles and his first NFL sack during a 19–17 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.[20] On October 13, 2014, he was given his first career start against the San Francisco 49ers and finished the game with four solo tackles.[21] After recording 47 tackles, nine sacks, and two forced fumbles, Donald was one of five rookies selected to the 2015 Pro Bowl.[22][23] Donald won the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award and was named to the NFL All-Rookie Team.[24][25]

2015 season

In 2015, Donald began the season as the Rams' starting defensive tackle. During the season opener against the Seattle Seahawks, he finished with nine total tackles and two sacks, helping the Rams win 34–31 in overtime.[26] He was named NFC Defensive Player of the Week for the first time in his NFL career for his performance.[27] On December 13, 2015, Donald made five tackles and a career-high three sacks against the Detroit Lions in Week 14.[28][29] He earned his second NFC Defensive Player of the Week award in 2015 after his performance against the Lions.[30]

Donald started all 16 games, ending the season with 69 tackles, 11 sacks, a pass defended, and a fumble recovery.[31] He earned a First Team All-Pro nomination for the first time in his NFL career.[32] He was a Pro Bowl selection for the second consecutive season.[33] He was also ranked 14th by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2016.[34]

2016 season

On September 12, 2016, Donald was ejected for making illegal contact with a referee in a 28–0 shutout loss to the San Francisco 49ers on Monday Night Football.[35][36] Four days later, he was fined $21,269 for unnecessary roughness ($9,115) and unsportsmanlike conduct ($12,154).[37] During a Week 4 17–13 victory over the Arizona Cardinals, Donald had 1.5 sacks, five total tackles, one tackle-for-loss, five quarterback hits, and a forced fumble.[38] He earned NFC Defensive Player of the Week for the third time in his career after his performance against the Cardinals.[39] On October 21, 2016, he was fined $18,231 for an unsportsmanlike conduct after committing the penalty during a game against the Detroit Lions.[18] Donald was named to his third straight Pro Bowl and his second First-team All-Pro.[40] Donald was also ranked 15th on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2017.[41]

2017 season

On April 12, 2017, the Rams exercised the fifth-year option on Donald's contract.[42] He did not report to training camp and preseason due to a contract extension dispute. He accumulated about $1.4 million in fines due to his non-participation, and each game that he missed cost him one game check from his base salary of $1.8 million.[43] On September 9, 2017, Donald reported to the Rams and passed his physical, however, he didn't play in the season-opener against the Indianapolis Colts the next day, which the Rams won 46-9.[44] On December 19, 2017, Donald was named to his fourth straight Pro Bowl.[45] He was also later named a first-team All-Pro for the third time.[46] Donald finished the 2017 season with 41 tackles, 11 sacks, and five forced fumbles.[47] After a stellar 2017 season, Donald was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year.[48] He was ranked #7 by his peers on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2018.[49]

2018 season

Donald after winning the NFC Championship Game

On August 31, 2018, after holding out all offseason, Donald signed a six-year, $135 million contract extension with $87 million guaranteed.[50] The deal made him the highest paid defensive player in NFL history, although Khalil Mack signed a $141 million contract with the Chicago Bears the next day after being traded from the Oakland Raiders.[51]

During Week 7 against the San Francisco 49ers, Donald finished with four sacks on quarterback C. J. Beathard, along with nine tackles, 6 for a loss, and five quarterback hits in a 39–10 win, earning him NFC Defensive Player of the Week for the fourth time in his career.[52] Donald was named the NFC Defensive Player of the Month for the month of October after recording eight sacks, 17 tackles, and a forced fumble.[53] In Week 16, Donald recorded seven tackles (four for a loss) and three sacks in a 31–9 victory over the Arizona Cardinals, earning him his fifth NFC Defensive Player of the Week.[54] His three sacks brought his season total to 19.5, which broke the record for most sacks in a season by a defensive tackle, previously held by Keith Millard with 18.0.[55] Donald added another sack in Week 17 against the 49ers and finished the season with a league-leading 20.5 sacks.[56][57] Donald was named NFC Defensive Player of the Month for December, his second such award in the season.[58]

On January 4, 2019, Donald was named to the AP All-Pro First Team, being the only unanimous selection.[59] On February 2, 2019, Donald was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year.[60] Donald joined Lawrence Taylor and J. J. Watt as the only players who have won the award in consecutive seasons.[61] Donald helped the Rams reach Super Bowl LIII after defeating the Dallas Cowboys in the Divisional Round and the New Orleans Saints in the NFC Championship.[62][63] In the Super Bowl, Donald recorded five tackles but the Rams lost by a score of 13–3 to the New England Patriots, with the Patriots offensive linemen (including Joe Thuney) double teaming Donald in order to neutralize his effectiveness which was cited as a key factor in the result.[64][65][66][67] He was ranked as the best player in the NFL by his peers on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2019.[68]

2019 season

During Week 3 against the Cleveland Browns, Donald recorded his first sack of the season on Baker Mayfield in the 20–13 road victory.[69] However, six days after the game, he was fined $21,056 for a roughing the passer hit on Mayfield. Three weeks later against the San Francisco 49ers, Donald sacked Jimmy Garoppolo twice in the 20–7 loss.[70] In the next game against the Atlanta Falcons, Donald recorded a strip sack on Matt Ryan and recovered the football in the 37–10 road victory.[71] During Week 11 against the Chicago Bears on Sunday Night Football, Donald recorded two sacks, four tackles, and a pass defensed in a 17–7 victory, earning NFC Defensive Player of the Week honors.[72][73]

2020 season

Donald in a game against the Washington Football Team in 2020

In Week 1 against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday Night Football, Donald recorded his first sack of the season on Dak Prescott during the 20–17 win.[74] In Week 3 against the Buffalo Bills, Donald recorded two sacks on Josh Allen, one of which was a strip sack that he later recovered during the 35–32 loss.[75] In Week 5 against the Washington Football Team, Donald recorded four sacks during the 30–10 win[76] On October 14, 2020, Donald was named the NFC Defensive Player of the Week for his performance in Week 5.[77] In Week 8 against the Miami Dolphins, Donald recorded a strip sack on rookie quarterback Tua Tagovailoa on Tagovailoa's first career passing attempt during the 28–17 loss.[78] In Week 12 against the San Francisco 49ers, Donald recorded a sack on Nick Mullens and forced a fumble on running back Raheem Mostert that was recovered and returned by teammate Troy Hill for a touchdown during the 23–20 loss.[79]

Donald was selected for the 2021 Pro Bowl.[80] In the Wild Card Round of the playoffs against the Seattle Seahawks, Donald sacked Russell Wilson two times during the 30–20 win.[81]

Awards

NFL career statistics

Legend
Led the league
NFL Defensive Player of the Year
Bold Career high

Regular season

St. Louis/Los Angeles Rams
General Tackles Interceptions Fumbles
Year GP GS Comb Solo Ast Sack TFL PD Int Yds Avg Lng TD FF FR Yds TD
2014 16 12 48 38 10 9.0 18 1 – – 0.0 – – 2 0 0 0
2015 16 16 69 43 26 11.0 22 1 – – 0.0 – – 0 1 40 0
2016 16 16 47 35 12 8.0 17 5 – – 0.0 – – 2 0 0 0
2017 14 14 41 32 9 11.0 15 1 – – 0.0 – – 5 1 0 0
2018 16 16 59 41 18 20.5 25 1 – – 0.0 – – 4 2 0 0
2019 16 16 48 29 19 12.5 20 2 – – 0.0 – – 2 1 0 0
2020 16 16 45 27 18 13.5 14 1 – – 0.0 – – 4 1 0 0
Career 110 106 357 247 110 85.5 131 12 0 0 0.0 0 0 19 6 40 0

Postseason

Los Angeles Rams
General Tackles Interceptions Fumbles
Year GP GS Comb Solo Ast Sack TFL PD Int Yds Avg Lng TD FF FR Yds TD
2017 1 1 5 4 1 0.5 1 – – – 0.0 – – – – – –
2018 3 3 9 5 4 0.0 3 – – – 0.0 – – – – – –
2020 2 2 4 3 1 2.0 2 – – – 0.0 – – – – – –
Career 6 6 18 12 6 2.5 6 0 0 0 0.0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Personal life

Donald's older brother, Archie Jr., had a less successful football career; he was a star linebacker at Toledo who, according to ESPN writer Alden Gonzalez, "bounced around the NFL as an undrafted free agent until retiring in 2012".[82] The brothers, who shared bunk beds in their childhood, frequently thought about one day helping their parents retire, which according to Gonzalez became one of the driving forces in Aaron's career.[1] On April 27, 2020, Donald revealed on Twitter that he had graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a degree in communications.[83]

References

  1. ^ a b Gonzalez, Alden (January 12, 2019). "How Rams DT Aaron Donald became the NFL's most unstoppable force". ESPN.com. Retrieved January 12, 2019.
  2. ^ Divittorio, Michael. "Penn Hills cherishes Aaron Donald as he prepares for Super Bowl debut". triblive.com. Retrieved February 11, 2019.
  3. ^ "Aaron Donald - Rivals.com". rivals.yahoo.com.
  4. ^ "Aaron Donald Recruit Interests". 247sports.com. Retrieved February 11, 2019.
  5. ^ Bouchette, Ed. "Dave Wannstedt and Pitt didn't know what they had in Aaron Donald. Then camp began". Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Retrieved February 11, 2019.
  6. ^ "Aaron Donald 2010 Game Log". College Football at Sports-Reference.com. Retrieved February 11, 2019.
  7. ^ "Aaron Donald 2011 Game Log". College Football at Sports-Reference.com. Retrieved February 11, 2019.
  8. ^ "Aaron Donald 2012 Game Log". College Football at Sports-Reference.com. Retrieved February 11, 2019.
  9. ^ "Aaron Donald 2013 Game Log". College Football at Sports-Reference.com. Retrieved February 11, 2019.
  10. ^ "The Official Athletic Site of the University of Pittsburgh". www.pittsburghpanthers.com. Archived from the original on March 5, 2016. Retrieved January 17, 2014.
  11. ^ Huguenin, Mike. "Pitt's Aaron Donald named winner of Lombardi Award". www.nfl.com. Retrieved February 11, 2019.
  12. ^ Adelson, Andrea (December 10, 2013). "Aaron Donald wins Nagurski Award". ESPN.com. Retrieved February 11, 2019.
  13. ^ "Pittsburgh defensive tackle Aaron Donald wins Chuck Bednarik Award to cap big week". lehighvalleylive.com. Associated Press. Retrieved February 11, 2019.
  14. ^ "Pitt defensive tackle Aaron Donald's dominance noted at awards show". post-gazette.com.
  15. ^ "2014 NFL combine: 10 takeaways from Indianapolis". CBS Sports.
  16. ^ "Rams add Aaron Donald to their first-round haul". ProFootballTalk. May 9, 2014.
  17. ^ "Aaron Donald – Pittsburgh, DT : 2014 NFL Draft Scout Player Profile". www.nfldraftscout.com. Archived from the original on May 28, 2014. Retrieved June 2, 2014.
  18. ^ a b "Sportrac.com:Aaron Donald contract". Sportrac.com. Retrieved October 28, 2016.
  19. ^ "Minnesota Vikings at St. Louis Rams – September 7th, 2014". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved February 11, 2019.
  20. ^ "St. Louis Rams at Tampa Bay Buccaneers – September 14th, 2014". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved February 11, 2019.
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  23. ^ "2014 NFL Pro Bowlers". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved February 11, 2019.
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  25. ^ "2014 NFL All-Rookie Team". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved February 11, 2019.
  26. ^ "Seattle Seahawks at St. Louis Rams – September 13th, 2015". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved February 11, 2019.
  27. ^ Alper, Josh (September 16, 2015). "Aaron Donald is 2015's first NFC defensive player of the week". ProFootballTalk. Retrieved February 11, 2019.
  28. ^ "NFL Player Profile:Aaron Donald". NFL.com. Retrieved October 28, 2016.
  29. ^ Meinke, Kyle. "Aaron Donald offers violent reminder of what could have been for Lions". MLive.com. Retrieved February 11, 2019.
  30. ^ "Rams DT Aaron Donald Named Week 14 NFC DPOW". Turf Show Times. December 16, 2015. Retrieved February 11, 2019.
  31. ^ "2015 St. Louis Rams Statistics & Players". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved February 11, 2019.
  32. ^ Broner, Tevin (January 9, 2016). "Three St. Louis Rams Make 2015 All-Pro Team". Turf Show Times. Retrieved February 11, 2019.
  33. ^ "2015 NFL Pro Bowlers". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved February 11, 2019.
  34. ^ "'Top 100 Players of 2016': No. 14 Aaron Donald". NFL.com.
  35. ^ Meyer, Max. "Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald ejected in loss". NFL.com. Retrieved September 12, 2016.
  36. ^ Meyer, Max. "Aaron Donald not expected to be suspended". NFL.com. Retrieved September 13, 2016.
  37. ^ Shook, Nick. "Fines: Aaron Donald docked $21K for two infractions". NFL.com. Retrieved September 16, 2016.
  38. ^ "Los Angeles Rams at Arizona Cardinals – October 2nd, 2016". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved February 11, 2019.
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