A paid LA Rams Aaron Donald always comes to play hard

The last time that the LA Rams and All-Pro defensive lineman Aaron Donald sat down to settle up on a new contract, the LA Rams ended up with a rather motivated Aaron Donald. Motivated seems a bit of an understatement, as Donald set carer highs that year in the number of quarterback sacks (20.5), tackles for losses (25), and quarterback hits (41).

But that was in 2018. Now he is entering 2022, has one of the most lucrative contracts ever, and is paid more than any non-quarterback in the NFL right now.

Some players kick back when they get that much money. Even more NFL players who get paid after earning their first Super Bowl championship ring ease back on the throttle. But when it comes to Aaron Donald?

Well, it seems like he is even more incentivized to terrorize the NFL. Have doubts? Just look at how the highest-paid defensive lineman attacks these drills early in training camp?

Aaron Donald, much like All-Pro defensive back Jalen Ramsey, is a rare category of a professional football player.  Instead of relaxing when his financial and longevity needs are satisfied via contractual negotiations with an NFL team, he has a new range of gears to shift into on his gearbox.  The Rams witnessed that in 2018. Now get ready to see that same bolt of Shazam lightning strike once more.

If history repeats itself, Aaron Donald could end this season with 22 quarterback sacks, 75 tackles, 29 tackles for a loss, and nearly 50 quarterback hits.

Too optimistic? I don’t think so. Aaron Donald is absolutely capable of hitting those lofty numbers this year. And with the team bringing back A’Shawn Robinson, Greg Gaines, and Leonard Floyd, plus playing Bobby Wagner at inside linebacker, the offense will have their hands quite full trying to figure out who is blocking who at every snap of the football.

Too hyped? Too optimistic for your taste? Revisit the drill above one more time.

Aaron Donald is unleashed once more. The last time that happened, he had the best year in his career.