Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle has been named as the 2020 NFL Defensive Player of the Year for the third time in the last four seasons.
Donald finished tied for the second in the NFL in sacks with 13.5 to go along with 14 tackles for loss, four forced fumbles and one fumble recovery. He was named as a unanimous First Team All-Pro selection for the sixth-straight season and also earned a seventh-straight trip to the Pro Bowl for his efforts.
The defensive tackle managed to edge out Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker T.J. Watt, who led the NFL in sacks (15.0), tackles for loss (23) and quarterback hits (41). Miami Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard also made a legitimate case by leading the league in interceptions (10) and pass breakups (20).
Donald earned 27 of the 50 first-place votes, while Watt was not far behind at 20 and Howard received the other three.
Donald had already joined some elite company becoming the third player in NFL history to repeat as Defensive Player of the Year two seasons ago behind J.J. Watt and Hall of Famer Lawrence Taylor. He is now in the same class once again with Watt and Taylor as just the third player to win the award three times in a career.
“It’s an honor and a blessing to be holding this trophy right now.” – @AaronDonald97
🏆🏆🏆 #NFLHonors pic.twitter.com/08L5h6PmVt
— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) February 7, 2021
The Rams boasted the No. 1 defense in the NFL in yards allowed per game (281.9) and points allowed per game (18.5) thanks in large part to Donald’s efforts as the anchor up front. The attention he drew as the focal point of every offensive line they faced helped lead to career years for both Leonard Floyd and Morgan Fox.
L.A. already lost defensive coordinator Brandon Staley and could experience some further turnover to this group in free agency. Fortunately, Donald’s presence gives them good reason to be optimistic that they will be able to enjoy similar success in the 2021 NFL season.
