Aaron Donald could still be traded this offseason, according to Sports Illustrated’s Matt Verderame.
Donald was a pivotal piece in the Rams’ setup when they won the Super Bowl in 2021 and wasn’t all that certain of returning after getting his first ring. While he eventually opted to return, the team failed miserably in their bid to defend their championship, even failing to make the playoffs.
Verderame reckons there would be plenty of interested suitors if L.A. made the defensive tackle available ahead of next season, also noting that it could be a smart move for the team despite being the hardest one GM Les Snead will ever have to work out.
Donald’s prime is already behind him at 32, while he has two years left on his deal that would incur cap hits of $26 million in 2023 and $34.1 million in 2024.
Trading him after June 1 would save the Rams $35.1 million over the next two years while also presenting crucial draft capital.
Any team trading for the veteran would only need to pay him $13 million next season and $10 million in the season to follow. But they would likely need to hand over premium picks in exchange for one of the best defensive players of the current era who still has a lot to offer at his age.
