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The contract status of DT Aaron Donald is likely the most important personnel-related issue for the Los Angeles Rams beyond 2017.
Recently named the #1 overall player in the entire NFL this upcoming season by PFF, Donald has been a no-show at organized team activities over the last three weeks. And while the threat his contract dispute offers remains until he signs something, at least we know now per NFL Network’s Steve Wyche and the Ventura County Star’s Joe Curley that he’s at least close by:
Was just told that Rams DT Aaron Donald is at the facility as team begins mini camp today. He has stayed away from OTAs
— Steve Wyche (@wyche89) June 13, 2017
Look who's here pic.twitter.com/Ao8qoWszVf
— Joe Curley (@vcsjoecurley) June 13, 2017
Donald has always been a loyal soldier and hard worker, so it’s no surprise really that the contract dispute hasn’t soured the relationship between he and the team to the point that he’s actively avoiding team convocations altogether.
Nonetheless, it’s at least a decent sign that Donald’s on board with the team. Once the Rams find a way, hopefully, to ensure that he’s contractually on board to boot? We can put our worries behind us.
As it stands, Aaron Donald is in the building. Panic averted...for now.