Much was made about Aaron Donald potentially retiring when the Los Angeles Rams defeated the Cincinnati Bengals in the Super Bowl earlier this year, only for him to sign a new contract that pays him $95 million over the next three years. It’s a three-year deal that expires after the 2024 season, but $30 million of it doesn’t become guaranteed until the fifth day of the new league year in 2024.
Essentially, Donald can walk away after two years if he doesn’t want to continue playing, thus leaving $30 million on the table.
Last week, Donald spoke about his future in Los Angeles with Peter King of NBC Sports, saying he’s committed to the Rams for at least two more years.
“I got a two-year commitment right now, so I’m going to do everything I can while I’m here to help the organization win and be successful,” Donald said. “I’m gonna last as long as I can, as long as I can play at a high level.”
Back in June, Donald signed his $95 million extension, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history.
Even as he enters his ninth season in the league, Donald remains the most dominant defensive player in the league. The three-time Defensive Player of the Year hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down and the Rams should expect him to give at least two more productive years on the interior.
While the Rams would love to make sure Donald spends his entire career with the franchise, there’s a chance he ends his career elsewhere. But for the time being, fans of the reigning Super Bowl champions shouldn’t be concerned with Donald’s commitment to the team entering the 2022 season.
