It’s a return to action for the Calgary Stampeders as the team has activated global defensive lineman Aaron Donkor (#92) from the suspended list and placed him on the practice roster. A standout performer from Germany, Donkor’s journey to the Stampeders’ practice field is one that transcends borders, leagues, and continents.
A Talent Beyond Borders
Born in Aachen, Germany on Mar. 21, 1995, the six-foot-one, 229-pound defender started his professional career with the Düsseldorf Panther in the German Football League, where he accumulated 14 sacks and 74 tackles, including 20 tackles for loss in 2016.
Pathway to North America
Donkor caught the eye of the NFL and became part of the International Player Pathway Program, spending time on the Seattle Seahawks’ practice squad in both 2021 and 2022. His North American journey continued in 2023 with a combined three-game stint with the XFL’s Houston Roughnecks and Arlington Renegades, where he made his mark recording seven tackles.
Collegiate Success
Before reaching the professional level, Donkor played for the NCAA’s Arkansas State Red Wolves and the New Mexico Military Institute Broncos. With the Red Wolves, he recorded 25 tackles in just six games during the 2019 season. His two seasons with the Broncos (2017-18) were highlighted by 32 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, 12.5 sacks, two fumble recoveries, and one forced fumble.
Stampeders & CFL Global Draft
The Calgary Stampeders selected Donkor as their third-round pick (21st overall) in the 2021 CFL Global Draft. He has already spent one week on the team’s practice roster earlier this season, and his reactivation is a testament to the trust the team places in his abilities.
Upcoming Game
The Stampeders (3-7) are gearing up for a critical match against the high-flying Toronto Argonauts (7-1) on Friday, Aug. 25. Kickoff is slated for 7:30 p.m. EDT at BMO Field in Week 12 action. The stakes are high, and Donkor’s presence on the practice roster could be the edge the Stampeders need to turn their season around.
Aaron Donkor’s activation from the suspended list to the practice roster is more than a roster move; it’s a testament to international talent and the boundless opportunity within the CFL. The game against the Argonauts will be one to watch, as the Stampeders look to rebound from a challenging season. Donkor’s versatile experience, ranging from the CFL to the XFL, adds a unique dimension to the Canadian gridiron, and fans will undoubtedly be eager to see how his return impacts the team.
