Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald might have seen winning the Super Bowl in his dreams but getting a day named after himself wouldn’t have been on his mind. The Pittsburgh native was recently honored by Mayor Ed Gainey, who declared 4th March 2022 as Aaron Donald Day. The hometown hero was in attendance with his family to celebrate this highlight moment.
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Donald was being rewarded for more than his contributions on the field as an NFL player from the University of Pittsburgh. His inspirational path to superstardom with an emphasis on hard work and giving back to his community were things that seemed to make Gainey proud of Donald.
The mayor of Pittsburgh also highlighted Donald’s foundation, AD99 Solutions, for having a positive impact on the youth in Pittsburgh.
THEREFORE, I, Ed Gainey, Mayor of @Pittsburgh, do hereby proclaim March 4 2022, as AARON DONALD DAY. I encourage everyone in Pittsburgh to learn more about Aaron Donald and take inspiration from him to pursue your dreams, work hard & always remember to give back to the community. pic.twitter.com/E1ledbMF9l
— Ed Gainey (@gainey_ed) March 4, 2022
As a University of Pittsburgh player became a local hero for his collegiate efforts. He was honored as a Pitt player with the Lombardi Award, Bronko Nagurski Trophy, Chuck Bednarik Award, and Outland Trophy. He was also named an All-American in 2013 before he became the Rams’ first-round pick during the 2014 NFL Draft.
Is Aaron Donald coming back next season?
While he just won his first Super Bowl ring, Donald might still be considering retirement and leaving the game when he is still on top. The Rams organization though seems to remain calm about his playing status amidst plans of repeating the feat in 2022. Even Rams GM Les Snead seems to consider Donald potentially retiring before next season as “not a concern.”
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But to the delight of Rams fans, he added L.A. is in talks with Donald over a massive extension before next season. His defensive presence and explosive pass rush were a nightmare for Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow during their Super Bowl victory.
He dominated him with two sacks and three quarterback hits. Notably, it was his efforts during the final play of the game that led him to his first ring.
The need for the Rams to bring him back is real. His decorated resume speaks for the impact he has had on the Rams. It is the type of production from Donald that sets him to become the highest-paid defensive player in the league. Both Snead and the Rams franchise know how much a presence he has, and their fans will be hoping to see him in the yellow and blue of their jersey next season.
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