Can Aaron Donald win his fourth NFL Defensive Player of the Year next season?

Aaron Donald is undoubtedly one of the most-dominant defensive players in the NFL today. The Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle has consistently put up an impressive display in the NFL since he was drafted as a first-round pick in 2014.

Donald has won a record three Defensive Player of the Year awards in his career so far. After an injury-laden 2022 season, the question on the minds of many is whether he can stage a comeback and win his fourth in the upcoming season.

Aaron Donald's performances during the seasons he won the NFL DPOY award

Aaron Donald has won the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award three times in his amazing career. The defensive tackle claimed the award in the 2017, 2018, and 2020 seasons. During each of these season, he put up impressive statistics that demonstrated his dominance on the field.

Donald clinched the award for the first in the 2017 season. He recorded 41 combined tackles, 11 sacks, and 15 tackles for loss for the Los Angeles Rams. He also had five forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, and one pass deflection in what was his fourth year in the league.

He delivered an even more remarkable performance the following season in 2018 which helped him retain the award. He had 59 combined tackles, 20.5 sacks, and four forced fumbles. He also recorded 25 tackles for loss, four pass deflections, and two fumble recoveries.

Donald's exceptional display in the 2020 season earned him his third career award. He recorded impressive stats, including 45 combined tackles, 13.5 sacks, and 14 tackles for loss, along with four forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, and one pass deflection.

Donald's chances of winning the award next season

Super Bowl LVI - Los Angeles Rams v Cincinnati Bengals

Donald will definitely be in the mix of contenders for the NFL Defensive Player of the Year next season. The Pittsburgh Panthers alum will seek redemption after a disappointing 2022 season. There's no denying that Donald is a game-changer on the Rams' defense.

His ability to penetrate the offensive line and create pressure on the quarterback is unparalleled in the NFL, and he's equally effective at stopping the run. The combination of speed, strength, and technique makes him a nightmare for opposing offenses.

However, winning the Defensive Player of the Year award for the fourth time is not going to be a piece of cake. Donald will have stiff competition from other standout defensive players in the league, including Myles Garrett, TJ Watt, Nick Bosa, and Micah Parsons, to name a few.

As the NFL world anticipates a new season, Donald will once again face high expectations. With nine Pro Bowl selections under his belt, he is undoubtedly one of the key players to watch in the Rams' quest for a successful season after a disappointing 2022 season.