After missing training camp for the second straight year, Los Angeles Rams star Aaron Donald has his new deal and is feeling good going into Monday night's season opener.
“I feel good, in shape,” Donald said via The Los Angeles Times. “The rust is getting knocked off just right.”
Last year Donald didn't report until the day before the season opener and didn't play in the first game. This year he reported early enough that he will be ready to go to get the start against the Oakland Raiders.
Donald admits that getting the six practices before playing in the first game is a big help and will put him in a better place for this season.
Article Continues Below“You kind of knew what to expect,” he said of returning to practice after a long time away from football. “Got the opportunity to come back and get six practices under my belt before the first game, so I think that’s going to be a bigger help for me as far as getting adjusted.”
Donald signed a contract extension that includes $87 million in guarantees. It made him the highest paid player on defense until Khalil Mack signed his extension with the Chicago Bears.
The Rams have high expectations for this season and getting Mack signed to an extension and getting him reported is key. The defense is decent without Donald, but with Donald, they are one of the best in the leagues.
“I’m just happy that, you know, my situation got done and that I’m here playing football,” Donald said after practice Thursday. “That’s all that matters.”