Rams LB Ernest Jones 'excited about the challenge without' Aaron Donald

The probability of the Los Angeles Rams genuinely replacing Aaron Donald is quite low, especially within the timeframe of a single offseason.

Nonetheless, Rams veteran linebacker Ernest Jones is eager to attempt it as L.A. gets to work on its first season without the surefire Hall of Fame defensive lineman since 2013.

“I’m excited for the challenge,” Jones told reporters Monday, via FOX Sports’ Eric Williams, “defensively we’re excited about the challenge without AD.”

The Rams will be without a 10-time Pro Bowl, three-time AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year and all-around wreaker of havoc seldom, if ever, seen on the interior of the defensive line when they kick off 2024 sans Donald, who retired in March.

However, for Jones, who is 24 years old, he views the obstacle to overcome as an opportunity to embrace for many on the defense.

“He said, ‘We have the opportunity to go out there now. It’s time for them to establish their reputation. It’s going to be a significant challenge.'”

Among those tasked with stepping up are defensive back additions Kamren Curl, Darious Williams and Tre'Davious White, along with returning talents such as 2023 third-round selections Byron Young and Kobie Turner, who turned in stellar rookie campaigns.

Since joining the Rams, Jones, a third-round draft pick in 2021, has aspired to become a leader in the team.

“From the moment I arrived, it was my goal to be the leader of this defense,” he stated. “I began to take on that role last year, but now that he’s gone, I’m under more scrutiny, which I can definitely handle. I have a fantastic group of guys I’m excited to lead. We’ve added some crucial pieces that I believe will be highly beneficial for our team. Leading a team like this is truly easy because everyone is ready to go.”

This Rams offseason is certainly not your usual one.

For the first time since 2016 and the first time in Sean McVay’s time as head coach, the Rams are set to make a first-round selection. And, as aforementioned, it will be the first time since 2013 that they’ll be entering a season without the dominant Donald on the roster.

Jones has achieved significant milestones in his three-season career. He has won a Super Bowl, participated in 47 games, and started 33. He recently concluded his 2023 season with impressive personal records, including 145 tackles and 4.5 sacks. He is confident that he and his defensive teammates can lead the Rams, even without AD.