The standoff between the Los Angeles Rams and Aaron Donald is over as the defensive tackle joins the team.
ended his holdout by reporting to the Rams’ facility early Saturday morning. The three-time All-Pro passed his physical but will miss the season opener against the Indianapolis Colts.
Donald has been added to L.A.’s active 53-man roster as the team will seek a roster exemption, which is normal procedure in such cases.
Although Donald is back with the team, no new contract is in place between the two parties. However, ESPN reports that Donald and L.A. are still discussing contract options.
The Rams have also decided to waive the $1.4 million in penalties Donald accumulated by skipping training camp and the preseason.
Because Donald’s contract hasn’t been restructured, all of the time he missed prior to the regular season might hurt him in the long run. He won’t be in the hole financially, but he may find it hard to perform at an elite level with such little practice time.
Initially, Donald may not be sharp on the field but he’s too talented to underperform all year. As long as he’s good to go by Week 2, he’ll have enough time to prove his worth–again.
Another NFL player’s holdout ends up accomplishing nothing but at least Donald, the Rams and the rest of us can move forward.
