The San Francisco 49ers became a thorn to the Los Angeles Rams last season.
The Niners won both of their regular-season encounters, including a 27-24 decision in Week 18 at SoFi Stadium.
Likewise, the 49ers had the Rams on the ropes during the NFC Championship Game.
However, the Rams prevailed after a tense battle and went on to win Super Bowl LVI over the Cincinnati Bengals.
The rivalry will only intensify in 2022 as Aaron Donald got the money he deserved.
He became the highest-paid non-quarterback in the league after the Rams restructured his existing deal.
The three-time Defensive Player of the Year can earn up to $95 million over the next three seasons, including $65 million guaranteed.
While it’s rightful for the dominant defensive tackle to get a lucrative incentive, 49ers offensive lineman Trent Williams has mixed reactions regarding the development.
Trent Williams on Aaron Donald's new contract with the Rams: "Yeah, I wish he would've retired, but he deserved a new contract."
— Matt Maiocco (@MaioccoNBCS) June 7, 2022
NBC Sports’ Matt Maiocco tweeted, “Trent Williams on Aaron Donald’s new contract with the Rams: ‘Yeah, I wish he would’ve retired, but he deserved a new contract.'”
A Blessing And A Curse
Williams is happy about Donald’s success because he worked his way as one of the best defensive players of all time.
Likewise, his deal could also guarantee more money for players who deserve that salary.
He knows that feeling because the 49ers gave him a six-year, $138.06 million contract last year which includes $40.1 million in guaranteed money.
However, he must deal with Donald at least twice every season.
Williams will be one of the people responsible to keep away Donald from quarterback Trey Lance.
Stopping the seven-time First-Team All-Pro member will be a tall order, but the 49ers believe that he is up to the challenge.
Donald’s domination during their games could be the curse that will spell their doom.
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