Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald was selected to the 2023 Pro Bowl Games on Monday in advance of the team’s primetime matchup against the Green Bay Packers.
Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander was also named to the NFC roster. The full rosters for the 2023 Pro Bowl Games are set to be announced Wednesday at 8 p.m. ET on NFL Network.
For Donald, it’s his ninth consecutive Pro Bowl nod, continuing a streak that began during his NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year campaign in 2014. His nine selections are third-most in Rams franchise history behind Tom Mack (11) and Merlin Olsen (14).
Donald started the Rams’ first 11 games prior to suffering a high ankle sprain against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 12. Over that span, he collected five sacks, 49 total tackles (10 for loss), 11 quarterback hits, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.
Donald’s five sacks are tied with linebacker Bobby Wagner and outside linebacker Leonard Floyd for the most on the Rams this season.
Donald and Alexander are set to be part of the NFL’s revised version of the Pro Bowl. The 2023 Pro Bowl Games will take place on Sunday, February 5 at 12 p.m. PT at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas and feature multiple football-related competitions and non-football challenges between the AFC and NFC.
Among the events are three AFC vs. NFC flag football games that will be coached by Peyton Manning and Eli Manning, respectively.
There will also be several skill challenges, including a full-field relay race between six AFC players and six NFC players (Gridiron Gauntlet), an offensive and defensive lineman strength and speed competition (Move the Chains) and two fan-selected winners from Thursday’s Skills competition competing for the title of ‘Best Catch.’
Furthermore, there will be a live musical performance as well as postgame trophy and MVP celebrations.
Will Aaron Donald return for Rams this season?
Donald has been sidelined since a Week 13 contest against the Seattle Seahawks due to his high ankle sprain, which was the first time in nine seasons he missed a game because of an injury.
With the Rams already being eliminated from playoff contention, it wouldn’t be surprising if they hold Donald out for the remainder of his season, regardless if he gets back healthy in time.
However, given Donald’s competitive nature, he may not be on board with that plan, so it will be interesting to see how the Rams handle his situation with three games left.
