Los Angeles Rams linebacker Ernest Jones is gearing up for a monumental challenge as the team prepares for its first season without defensive stalwart Aaron Donald in over a decade. While the absence of the surefire Hall of Famer presents a daunting task, Jones is embracing the opportunity to step up and lead the defense.
“I’m excited for the challenge,” Jones expressed to reporters, highlighting the defensive unit’s collective enthusiasm despite the absence of Donald.
The departure of Donald, a 10-time Pro Bowler and three-time AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year, marks a significant transition for the Rams’ defense. However, Jones sees it as a chance for emerging players to carve out their own identities and make a mark on the team.
Rams LB Ernest Jones “excited about the challenge without” Aaron Donaldhttps://t.co/mhggQIHlwB pic.twitter.com/MTnRQefrXj
— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) April 17, 2024
“We get to go out there and now it’s time for those guys to make a name for themselves, so it’s just going to be a great task,” Jones remarked, acknowledging the opportunity for younger talents to step up.
Among those expected to rise to the occasion are new defensive additions such as Kamren Curl, Darious Williams, and Tre’Davious White, alongside returning players like Byron Young and Kobie Turner, who demonstrated promise in their rookie seasons.
Jones, a third-round pick in 2021, has long envisioned himself as a leader within the Rams’ defense. With Donald’s departure, Jones recognizes the increased responsibility on his shoulders but remains confident in his ability to lead effectively.
“From the moment I got here, this was a goal of mine to be this leader of this defense,” Jones affirmed, emphasizing his readiness to take on a more prominent leadership role.
The upcoming season marks a significant shift for the Rams, with the team set to make its first first-round selection since 2016 and entering uncharted territory without Donald anchoring the defensive line. Despite the changes, Jones believes in the resilience and talent of the Rams’ defense, poised to rise to the challenge.
Through his tenure with the Rams, Jones has already experienced success, including a Super Bowl victory and notable individual achievements. As he looks ahead to the upcoming season, Jones is determined to lead by example and guide his teammates to continued success, even in the absence of a defensive powerhouse like Aaron Donald.
Los Angeles Rams linebacker Ernest Jones embraces the monumental challenge of leading the defense into a new era without Aaron Donald. Despite Donald’s absence, Jones and his teammates are eager to rise to the occasion and carve out their own identities. With emerging talents like Kamren Curl and Darious Williams alongside returning players, Jones sees an opportunity for growth and leadership. As a third-round pick, Jones has long aimed to be a defensive leader, now stepping up to fill the void left by Donald. Despite the changes, Jones remains confident in the Rams’ resilience and talent, determined to guide them to continued success.
