Von Miller has made it clear this off-season that he wants to return to Denver, where his Hall of Fame career began. Broncos players would celebrate this legendary homecoming.
“Obviously, everybody would love it,” running back Nik Bonitto told reporters Wednesday from a charity event, via DNVR’s Zac Stevens . “Not just the fans, but the players. He’s a guy that’s so loved here in Denver. My personal favorite player to watch. Just to be able to share a room with him would be amazing.”
Miller was the No. 2 overall pick in 2011. Miller began his 11-year career in Denver with Defensive Rookie of the Year honors, was a four-time All-American and made eight Pro Bowls. He also led the Broncos in the 2015 Lombardi run and earned Super Bowl MVP honors.
Miller was traded from Denver to Los Angeles midway through the 2021 season and joined Buffalo in 2022, but his season was cut short by injury. He has never been quite himself since. The 37-year-old posted 9 sacks as a rotational edge with Washington, showing he still has juice left to squeeze — even if the bark is getting rough.
Fans and players who want a reunion are wise. The bigger question is whether the Broncos front office and coaching staff would view Miller as a viable addition. With Bonitto and Jonathan Cooper in the lead, there aren’t many pictures. Denver is already converting 2024 third-rounder Jonah Elliss to linebacker, in part to create snaps for youngsters like Que Robinson on the edge. Adding another veteran to the mix just seems to mess up that plan again.
Asked about Elliss moving from the outside to the inside, Bonitto brushed it aside, noting the third-year pro already took reps there in previous sets and showed he has the ability to cover.
“If people actually watch the games, they’ll see a lot of times on third downs, he was already set at quarterback,” Bonito said. “We had a lot of packages for him. He’s one of our best cover players when we drop him in coverage. And even in those packages, what he can do with the drop, rush the quarterback, I mean, he provides so much versatility. Obviously, he’s still learning the position, but I have no doubt he’s one of the talents on the team.”
On paper, the Broncos don’t have a need for a 16-year pro like Miller right now. But never say never at reunions – especially ones that might not cost much – when turning edges are always needed, especially during a stretch run. One injury could always change the bill completely.
With the draft in the back of his mind, Miller could find a landing spot before training camp in July, or wait until after the first week of the season, when veteran contracts are no longer guaranteed. He may wait to see if an injury strikes a Super Bowl contender before attempting another run at a circle.