Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay was notably giddy when discussing defensive tackle Aaron Donald's looming contract negotiations earlier in the week. The reasoning behind his unusual optimism at the time has now become clear.
It seems McVay himself got an insider tip about both sides nearing an agreement. ESPN Insider Adam Schefter said on NFL Live that Donald told him that the extension was in the final stages:
“The Rams and Aaron Donald continued to make progress to the point, earlier this week Aaron Donald told Sean McVay, with the open lines of communication that they have, that the deal was getting done, which is why Sean McVay expressed the confidence that he had.”
This report should not come as a surprise. Despite his optimism that a deal would eventually be reached, McVay was always rather non-committal when discussing Donald's situation. However, that all changed during his press conference this week, when he indicated that the reigning Defensive Player of the Year was nearing his return.
Los Angeles signed Donald to a lucrative six-year, $135 million contract, making him the highest-paid defensive player in the NFL. His new deal will earn him a $22.5 million annual price tag. There was speculation regarding the Rams' willingness to pay Donald quarterback-tier money. However, it is clear that the front office is more than willing to pay top dollar for its talented young core. They have now locked up Donald, running back Todd Gurley, wide receiver Brandin Cooks, and right tackle Rob Havenstein for the foreseeable future.
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