LOS ANGELES—The Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle, Aaron Donald signed a six-year deal worth $135 million ($87 million guaranteed). Donald was rewarded for his great play over his first four years. He is now the highest paid defensive player in NFL History.
The defensive tackle is the third Rams player to receive a big payday this offseason. Running Back Todd Gurley received a contract of $60 million ($45 million guaranteed) for four years. Wide Receiver Brandin Cooks received a contract of $80 million ($49 million guaranteed) for five years. The Rams are most certainly putting their cap space to use.
Donald was waiting for his big pay day since last season. He has been one of the best defensive players in the league since he entered in 2014. A defensive tackle that stands at about 6 feet and 280 pounds, Donald often requires two blockers. Donald will be paired with Ndamokung Suh this upcoming year, giving the Rams a strong defensive line.
He finally experienced a winning season with the Rams in 2017. In Sean McCoy’s first season, the team experienced a huge turnaround and went 11-5. They made the playoffs for the first time since 2004 before losing to the Atlanta Falcons in the wild card round of the playoffs. The past few years the Rams held records of 4-12 (2016), 7-9 (2015), and 6-10 (2014). Going into the 2018 season, the Rams have 850 to 1 odds.
During his career, Donald made the Pro Bowl every year (2014-2017). He won Defensive Rookie of the Year (2014), and Defensive Player of the Year (2017). He has 39 sacks, 148 tackles, and 9 forced fumbles so far in his career. He leads the NFL with 88 tackles for loss.
Players reacted to Donald’s huge contract. All-Pro Cornerback Jalen Ramsey tweeted, “Love seeing guys getting paid for their worth! Congrats to @AaronDonald97.”
Written By Madison McKesson