Rams DT Aaron Donald: Sneaky MVP Candidate?
Even though Aaron Donald is arguably the best defensive player in the NFL, the Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle has a slim chance of winning the MVP. After all, the last non-quarterback to do so was running back Adrian Peterson in 2012.
Despite that, there is no denying the defensive tackle's immense value to the Rams and their potential success this season. His importance is highlighted by the fact that NFL.com named him the Rams' non-quarterback MVP heading into the season. This recognition is attributed to his potential to be exceptional on a lackluster defensive line.
"Donald considered retirement, he said, following the Rams' Super Bowl victory, and he's sticking it out after the wicked hangover that was the 2022 season," NFL.com writes. "If he can continue dominating on a rebuilding defense, it could vault him to even loftier greatness. The man is likely to see even more tricked-up blocking schemes designed to neutralize him."
If Donald can take his greatness to a new level, an MVP trophy would be the ultimate accolade to add to his illustrious trophy case. As it stands, the defensive tackle is already a Super Bowl champion, a three-time Defensive Player of the Year, the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, a seven-time first-team All-Pro, and a nine-time Pro Bowler.
A career year and an MVP trophy for Donald could not only propel him and the Rams into the postseason following their absence last season but also solidify his claim as one of the greatest defenders in NFL history.
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