The Associated Press Defensive Player of the Year wasn't at the Rams' training complex Monday while most of his teammates began strength and conditioning work.

Last season, Donald was absent from most of the Rams' offseason program, all of training camp and the preseason while seeking a new contract. He also missed the first game of the regular season after ending his holdout one day beforehand, yet still produced another dominant season for the NFC West champions.

Coach Sean McVay says Donald's current absence particularly doesn't concern him compared to last year. The Rams and Donald's representatives have been discussing a lavish new contract for many months.