The Los Angeles Rams have executed a near-perfect offseason. Their only blemish thus far has been their inability to reach a new deal with defensive tackle Aaron Donald.

As a result, Donald is expected to hold out until he gets his lucrative contract. However, Gary Klein of the Los Angeles Times said during an appearance on the Dan Patrick Show that he could show up prior to the start of the 2018 NFL season.

“I suppose there's a chance, but I would be really surprised if it gets to that point…. they do have about an 11-day window after the final preseason game and the beginning of the regular season. I wouldn't be surprised if things begin to heat up at that point.”

The report is not too far-fetched considering the course of action Donald has taken in the past. Los Angeles has been locked in contract negotiation with Donald since last year. He had even missed the season opener before making his triumphant return. Unfortunately, it seems they have made little progress in reaching a new deal. That said, Donald has indicated that he will be absent from training camp and likely the entire preseason.

It goes without saying that Donald is certainly well-deserving of a lucrative, long-term contract. The reigning Defensive Player of the Year has established himself as arguably the most dominant superstar in the NFL. There has been plenty of speculation regarding the annual figure he is looking for. Rumors suggest he is in pursuit of a deal that pays him upwards of $20 million a year.