Early Life and Personal Background

Aaron Charles Donald was born on May 23, 1991, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He is the youngest of three children and was raised in a disciplined and structured household. Encouraged by his father to pursue athletics, Donald developed a strong passion for football from a young age. Recognizing his potential, his parents enrolled him with a top local football coach to hone his skills.

Donald attended Penn Hills High School in his hometown, where he began attracting attention as a formidable defensive player. While academics were not his primary focus, his commitment to football was unwavering. His high school career laid a strong foundation for what would become a standout journey in collegiate and professional football.

High School and College Football Career

As a high school athlete, Donald played for the All-State Class AAAA team, gaining recognition for his defensive prowess. Recognizing his talent, several colleges extended scholarship offers, and he went on to play college football at the University of Pittsburgh. While at Pitt, Donald's performance steadily improved each season.

In 2011, Donald’s sophomore year, he started 13 games and recorded 47 tackles, with 16 tackles for loss and 11 sacks—impressive statistics that highlighted his ascending trajectory. Despite suffering a minor injury during his junior year, Donald continued to perform at a high level and was promoted to a senior leadership position on the team.

His senior season in 2013 was particularly notable. Donald logged 59 tackles, 28.5 tackles for loss, and 11 sacks, earning him unanimous All-American honors. His collegiate career not only showcased his physical abilities but also established his reputation as one of the most impactful defensive players in the NCAA.