Things seem to be trending in the right direction between holdout defensive tackle Aaron Donald and the Los Angeles Rams.
The reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year has been away from training camp and the preseason as he looks for a contract that will make him among the game’s highest-paid players.
Instead of inking Donald to a deal representative of his domination, the Rams had previously focused on extending fellow stars Todd Gurley and Brandin Cooks.
It now looks like Donald could be next. In speaking to the media on Tuesday, Rams head coach Sean McVay noted that “there’s a level of increase optimism” that a deal will get done here soon.
An optimistic and comical #Rams coach Sean McVay said on Aaron Donald tosH: “Aaron, see you soon, buddy.” In all seriousness: “There is a level of increased optimism. … There are a lot of things that need to get done to be finalized, but we’re working in a positive direction.”
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 29, 2018
Donald, 27, remains one of the best overall players in the game. He recorded 11 sacks and five forced fumbles en route to earning the NFL’s highest individual defensive honor last season.
Even then, Donald remains one of the most underpaid players in the league. He’s set to earn just $6.89 million this season.
Should Donald be extended prior to Week 1, said deal would surpass the six-year, $114.1 million extension Von Miller signed with the Denver Broncos back in July of 2016.