With the 2017 NFL preseason officially in the books, the focus for the Los Angeles Rams turns to Week 1 versus the Indianapolis Colts. Unfortunately, they are still without All-Pro defensive end Aaron Donald.
However, there have been reports that the Rams front office flew out to Atlanta to meet with Donald’s representatives in person, according to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport:
As the opener looms, #Rams brass flew to Atlanta on Wednesday for an in-person meeting with reps of star DT Aaron Donald, sources say. 🛬
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 1, 2017
While there has not been any word on both sides potentially reaching a deal, there is optimism that he will be back in time for the 2017 NFL season opener. This report certainly confirms that optimism, considering the Rams front office has started to show some initiative.
The defensive line for Los Angeles is incredibly thin right now with Donald’s absence and the season-ending injury to Dominique Easley. This will make it especially tough for defensive coordinator Wade Phillips to adjust his scheme around the current personnel.
In an offseason full of lucrative long-term extensions, it is hard to see why the best among them is still without one. Sure the Rams have some big decisions to make in the coming years regarding several other key members of this team. However, generational talents like Donald do not come around very often.