Aaron Donald holdout: Los Angeles Rams need to PAY this manBy Adam Schein
If you tried to pitch a script detailing how the Los Angeles Rams have dealt with star defensive tackle Aaron Donald, even Hollywood wouldn't bite on such a storyline in its backyard. It's that unfathomable.
Of course the Rams should pay Aaron Donald. Of course they should've paid him months ago.
In a mind-boggling development, it's Week 1 of the NFL season and Donald's holdout continues with no end in sight. It's highly counterproductive to the cause, on and off the field. Late last week, Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio reported that the two sides are still negotiating, but "not close" on a new deal. Ugh.
Truth be told, I begged my editor to write this column back in July, when the holdout began. My editor wouldn't bite, saying the Rams would undoubtedly pay the man before a holdout could cut into the regular season. I don't blame my editor. Hindsight's 20/20. And a couple months ago, this kind of a prolonged stalemate did seem unfathomable.
Yes, Donald is under contract for two more years on his rookie deal, set to make $1.8 million this season and $6.9 million in 2018 (with the Rams picking up his fifth-year option in April). But is that anywhere near the amount of money Donald deserves -- less than $2 million this fall? Of course not. Donald has significantly outplayed the compensation of the slotted rookie pay scale. Give him the loot!
But what about the precedent that would set, giving Donald a new deal with two years left on his contract? How does this affect the other players who aren't thrilled with their current status?
Yeah, yeah -- I know this line of debate. But let's be honest: Not every contract situation -- and certainly not every player -- is created equal. You rip up Donald's contract and start anew because he's a bona fide star and a great guy. You rip it up and start anew because he's the franchise's best player. You rip it up and start anew because 2017 is set up for him to enjoy his best season yet.
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