Career Timeline of Aaron Donald: Major Achievements and Milestones
From career breakthroughs to professional milestones, explore how Aaron Donald made an impact.
Aaron Donald is a retired American professional football defensive tackle renowned as one of the greatest defensive players ever. He spent his entire 10-season NFL career with the St. Louis/Los Angeles Rams. Donald consistently dominated opponents with his exceptional strength, agility, and technique, earning numerous accolades, including three Defensive Player of the Year awards and multiple All-Pro selections. His impact on the field was transformative, solidifying his legacy as a defensive icon.
June 16, 2014: Signed Rookie Contract with the Rams
On June 16, 2014, Aaron Donald signed a four-year, fully guaranteed $10.13 million rookie contract with the St. Louis Rams, including a $5.69 million signing bonus.
September 7, 2014: NFL Regular Season Debut
On September 7, 2014, Aaron Donald made his regular season debut with the St. Louis Rams against the Minnesota Vikings, recording four tackles in the game.
October 13, 2014: First Career Start
On October 13, 2014, Aaron Donald received his first career start against the San Francisco 49ers, finishing the game with four solo tackles.
December 13, 2015: Career-High Three Sacks Against Lions
On December 13, 2015, Aaron Donald recorded a career-high three sacks against the Detroit Lions, earning him his second NFC Defensive Player of the Week award of the year.
2015: Selected to Pro Bowl and Wins Defensive Rookie of the Year
In 2015, after recording 47 tackles, nine sacks, and two forced fumbles, Aaron Donald was selected to the Pro Bowl and won the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award.
April 12, 2017: Fifth-Year Option Exercised
On April 12, 2017, the Los Angeles Rams exercised the fifth-year option on Aaron Donald's contract.
August 31, 2018: Signs Contract Extension
On August 31, 2018, Aaron Donald signed a six-year, $135 million contract extension with the Rams, making him the highest-paid defensive player in NFL history at the time.
2018: Breaks Sacks Record for Defensive Tackle
During the 2018 season, Aaron Donald broke the record for most sacks in a season by a defensive tackle, finishing with a league-leading 20.5 sacks.
2019: Recorded First Sack of the Season
During Week 3 of the 2019 season, Aaron Donald recorded his first sack of the season in a game against the Cleveland Browns.
June 7, 2022: Rams Renegotiate Donald's Contract
On June 7, 2022, the Los Angeles Rams announced they had re-negotiated Aaron Donald's existing contract extension, making him the first non-quarterback to average more than $30 million per season.
March 15, 2024: Announced Retirement from NFL
On March 15, 2024, Aaron Donald announced his retirement from the NFL on social media.
