Former Pitt Panthers defensive tackle Aaron Donald has begun his professional career the same way he finished his collegiate career- collecting trophies.
Donald was announced as the Associated Press Defensive Rookie of the Year at Saturday’s NFL Honors awards show.
The former Panthers’ star established himself as a disruptive force on the St. Louis Rams defensive line and it marks the second consecutive year that a defensive lineman won the award after Sheldon Richardson of the New York Jets took home the honors last year.
Donald finished with 25 votes from a nationwide panel of 50 media members. He edged out Baltimore linebacker C.J. Mosley by seven votes.
He didn’t begin the season as a starter, but once he got into the Rams’ starting lineup, Donald showed the ability to be a game changer. Donald had 37 tackles, nine assists, and led all rookies with nine sacks. He was also one of three rookies initially selected for the Pro Bowl.
Donald also took home the Pro Football Writers of America 2014 Defensive Rookie of the Year in mid-January.
One thing is for sure and that is if Donald keeps this up, he is going to need a bigger trophy case.
Photo Credit: Associated Press
