Aaron Donald becomes the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history

Three-time Defensive Player of the Year becomes first non-quarterback to eclipse $30 million a year in contract restructuring

Los Angeles Rams have agreed a record contract restructuring with him three times Defensive Player of the Year, Aaron Donaldreported Adam Schefter of ESPNciting sources, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in the history of the NFL.

The deal means a $40 million raise for the remaining three years of his current contract, with no new years added. The three-year contract, worth $95 million after the deal, makes donald in the first player NFLwho does not play the quarterback position, who tops the annual average of $30 million per season.

The agreement, negotiated by the agent Todd Franceincludes 65 million dollars guaranteed for the next two years, and is structured in such a way that it will allow donald retire or return for the 2024 campaign for the additional $30 million guaranteed, sources told Schefter.

donaldwho underwent a physical examination with the rams, signed the agreement this Monday, as the franchise showed on its social networks. The rams They start their mandatory mini camp this Tuesday.

The new deal includes a no-trade clause, a source told Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.

The defensive lineman had indicated on the “I Am Athlete” podcast that his return for the 2022 season would be contingent on him receiving a new deal, and that he would be “at peace” with his career, should it not be reached. a new agreement.

The product of pitt sealed the victory of rams Over the Cincinnati Bengals in the Super Bowl LVI when he pressured the quarterback Joe Burrow to commit an imprecise pass in the final stretch of the fourth period.

The 31-year-old defender had 12.5 sacks last regular season, and added another 3.5 to that in the playoffs during the team’s career. rams until the superbowl.

donald arrived at the then St.Louis Rams as a first-round pick — with the 13th overall pick — of the 2014 NFL Draftcoming from the University of Pittsburgh.

was appointed Defensive Rookie of the Year on his league debut, and Defensive Player of the Year in 2017, 2018 and 2020. In addition, in his first eight seasons of NFLhas been elected to Pro Bowl eight times, and has been part of the first team All-Pro in seven seasons.

Additionally, donald finished second in the voting for Defensive Player of the Year in 2015, fourth in 2016, fifth in 2019, and third in 2021. In eight seasons, he has 98 sacks.

The Hall of Fame included to donald in his dream team of the 2010s.