Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald was named the NFC Defensive Player of the Week for his performance against the Chicago Bears in Week 11.
The Rams welcomed the Bears to town needing a win to keep pace in the NFC playoff races, and they got exactly that, earning a 17-7 victory to move to 6-4. Los Angeles’ offensive was short-handed in the game due to injuries, so it was known that the defense was going to have to carry them.
Donald is the reigning two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year, but he has not put up as big of statistics this season largely due to him being double and triple-teamed every play.
He saved his best game for when it was needed most though, posting four total tackles, two sacks, four quarterbacks hits and one pass deflection in the win over the Bears. Overall in 10 games this season, Donald now has 35 total tackles, eight sacks, 16 tackles for loss and two forced fumbles.
The Rams as a team had three sacks and an interception against the Bears, holding them to just 267 yards of total offense.
After the addition of Jalen Ramsey in the secondary, the Rams defense has really found its form in recent weeks. That will need to continue if they want to stay in the postseason picture, and more strong performances will be needed from Donald for that to be the case.