Los Angeles Rams: 2017 Offensive and Defensive MVPs

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Aaron Donald

32 tackles, nine assisted tackles, 11 sacks, five forced fumbles

Again, was there any real question on who the defensive MVP would be for the Los Angeles Rams? If we were extending it outside of players, Wade Phillips may win the award simply due to his overall impact on the defense. However, at the heart and soul of that defensive improvement was Aaron Donald.

Donald was one of the most unstoppable forces during the 2017 season, something has that been a trend his entire career. While Donald’s 32 tackles were the lowest of his career, his 11 sacks and five forced fumbles were both career highs. Both of which also led the Los Angeles Rams.

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Donald finished tied for 11th in total sacks in the entire NFL and also tied for second in total forced fumbles. These numbers also came in just 11 games played for Donald, who sat out the first two due to contract disputes. This 14-game season is definitely enough to earn him All-Pro honors once more.

However, the most important thing for the Rams now is bringing Donald back. Those contract disputes never reached a resolution, and now, Donald is set to be a free agent. With his talent there are going to be many teams interested in Donald; all of which willing to pay him a lot of money.

Making the playoffs definitely helped the Rams case to bring Donald back as the team may offer him the best chance at a Super Bowl ring. Regardless, bringing back their Defensive MVP is the most important thing of the Rams offseason.

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Overall, both Gurley and Donald put together tremendous seasons that led the Rams to their best record since 2003. With both of them being young and in their primes, the future of the Los Angeles Rams looks bright.

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