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If you’ve ever wondered why Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald chose to sport #99 when he entered the league, here’s his reasoning:
So @AaronDonald97 is funny! On trash talk, wearing No 99 and more as co athlete of year for @LASportsAwards with Philip Rivers. He’s with @mattmoneysmith! @RamsNFL @VamosRams @nfl #rams #nfl pic.twitter.com/cmkqSE3oCQ
— Jill Painter Lopez (@jillpainter) March 26, 2019
When Donald was drafted by the Rams in the 2014 NFL Draft, #97 was occupied by DE Eugene Sims, a rotational defensive end. Sims hasn’t played football since 2016, spending all seven years of his NFL career with the Rams.
It’s typical for a player to charge for his jersey number, though it’d be interesting to know just how much was “too much” for Donald. #97 was the number he wore in college with the Pittsburgh Panthers, so it’s understandable why he inquired when he came to the NFL.
Regardless, #99 has worked out well for the five-time pro bowl, four-time first-team All-Pro, and two-time Defensive Player of the Year. Donald continues to wreak havoc as the single most dominant player in the league, regardless of position.