After a decade of leaving his mark on the field, seasoned DT Aaron Donald chose to retire, closing a chapter filled with monumental achievements. With an astounding 111 sacks, Donald shattered the Rams’ record, setting a new pinnacle for career sacks within the team. At 32, this stalwart of the LA Rams not only etched his name in the annals of the team’s history but also earned widespread acclaim across the NFL world. But ever wondered who pushed him to outwork most other players in the NFL?

The work ethic of Antonio Brown rubbed off not just on the Pittsburgh Steelers. In a recent episode of the Green Light Podcast hosted by Chris Long, the ex-Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald shared insights into his work ethic, drawing parallels with Antonio Brown’s renowned dedication.

Aaron Donald wanted to outwork Antonio Brown

Viewing himself as someone with a strong work ethic, Aaron was driven by the desire to exceed the efforts of others, particularly Antonio Brown. He described how he would go online and see Brown working out and get motivated to push himself harder. “I’d feel like I got a good workout in, and then I’d be seeing his stuff, and he’d post a second workout that day, and I’d feel like, damn, I feel like he outworking me,” explained Donald.

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This kind of dedication is what transforms athletes into icons, setting them apart from their peers. Brown, for instance, has acquired 12,291 receiving yards complimented by 83 career touchdowns. Donald, on the other hand, had 111 career sacks and 340 career solo tackles. Both he and Brown will forever go down as some of the greatest to ever play in the NFL.

Aaron’s work ethic is renowned league-wide, and even HC Mike Tomlin was forced to point it out.

Mike Tomlin praises Aaron’s work ethic

Coach Tomlin recently shared a touching tribute. He shared that he knew the Pittsburgh native Aaron Donald, since he was just 18 years old. This allowed Tomlin to witness the DT’s evolution into a towering figure in the NFL and his distinctive approach to the game. Tomlin, awash with admiration, couldn’t resist lauding Donald’s commendable work ethic.

He spoke about their days at the Pittsburgh Panthers training facility. “I have seen him getting out of his car when it was still very dark in the morning and working solo over the course of a 12-month calendar.” Tomlin’s narrative didn’t end there. He poignantly recalled how Donald, fresh off a Super Bowl triumph in the 2021-2022 season, was spotted back in Pittsburgh within a week, ready to grind. “And I think that’s just indicative of who he is as a football man, and why he’s had the type of career he’s had and the impact on the game he’s had. He’s just a ridiculous worker.”

It’s clear that Donald’s legacy is as much about his character and devotion as it is about his achievements on the field. Now as he moves on from the gridiron, his legacy could inspire the Rams to keep going and with another Super Bowl after three years.

Hated Tom Brady For ‘2 Years’, Retired Aaron Donald Reveals Respectful Exchange Despite Rams Losing the Super Bowl to the Patriots