The Los Angeles Rams are facing a new reality as they prepare for the upcoming season without the legendary Aaron Donald. The 10-time Pro Bowl defensive lineman, who retired in March, leaves behind big shoes to fill for the Rams defense.
Despite the daunting challenge of replacing Donald, Rams linebacker Ernest Jones is embracing the opportunity. Jones expressed his excitement for the challenge ahead, stating, “defensively we’re excited about the challenge without AD.”
With Donald no longer anchoring the defensive line, the Rams will rely on a new generation of players to step up and make their mark. Jones sees this as a chance for the defense to prove themselves and establish a new identity in Donald’s absence.
Among the players expected to step up are defensive backs Kamren Curl, Darious Williams, and Tre’Davious White, along with Byron Young and Kobie Turner, who had impressive rookie seasons in 2023. Jones, a third-round pick in 2021, has set his sights on becoming a leader for the Rams defense and is ready to embrace the added responsibility.
The upcoming season marks a significant shift for the Rams, as they will make their first first-round selection since 2016 and enter a season without Aaron Donald for the first time since 2013. Despite the challenges, Jones is confident in himself and his teammates’ abilities to lead the defense and continue the Rams’ success.
