Despite coming up short in the playoffs, the Los Angeles Rams still surpassed expectations for the 2020 season.
The Rams offense was uneven, but the defense under former defensive coordinator Brandon Staley was able to carry the team to a 10-6 record. Aaron Donald was once again the centerpiece of the defense, wrecking games on an every-week basis and making plays when Los Angeles needed him most.
For his efforts, Donald was awarded the 2020 NFL Defensive Player of the Year award, marking the third time he has come away with the honor. Donald finished the season with 13.5 sacks and 14 tackles for loss, impressive numbers for a defensive tackle.
According to Stu Jackson of Rams, Donald was happy to win the award but reiterated his main goal is to win a Super Bowl:
“It’s a blessing,” Donald said. “I always say the same stuff, you know – anytime you’re rewarded for the body of work you put in and people notice that, you’ll be happy about that. You’re accomplishing great things building to a legacy, but never satisfied. I know I still got a lot of work to do, a lot of room for improvement. The ultimate goal is to be holding that trophy up. That’s what we’re chasing, that’s what I’m chasing, that’s what I want to accomplish. And I until I accomplish that, I ain’t going to be satisfied.”
The superstar also acknowledged that age is becoming a factor for him, but will continue to do whatever it takes to get ready before next season:
“I’m definitely getting older, I’m definitely feeling the aches and pains a little different,” said Donald, who turns 30 in May. “I’m always going to work hard. For me, I can’t slow down the way I work, the way I train. I’ve just got to make sure I take care of my body, do that much more to make sure that even if I do have a little bit of aches and pains through this offseason from training, I’m on top of it and taking care of it to the point where I won’t let it linger. Doing everything I can to be in great shape, be prepared come gametime before football is back, but at the same time making sure I’m healthy enough so I won’t be limited or slowed down by (anything).”
Donald is one of the few constants for the Rams and knowing him he will come back just as strong for the 2021 season. It is unclear whether or not the Los Angeles defense can replicate its strong showing, but Donald will always make sure they are one of the best units in the league.
