Sep 29, 2019; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller (58) celebrates his 100th career sack at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Michael Madrid-USA TODAY Sports
Von Miller and the Broncos appear to be on track for at least one more year together.
The Denver Broncos have a big decision to make this month regarding Von Miller’s future with the team. He has a club option sitting on the table and some off-the-field issues may have led the team to take their time in making a final decision.
The deadline is March 16 and it is possible a new long-term deal is worked out as well. Denver GM George Paton recently provided a quote that seems to signal at least one more year for Miller in Denver.
Broncos appear to be ready to pick up Von Miller’s option
The former No. 2 overall pick would be a hot commodity if he hit the open market. The Broncos can prevent that from happening by picking up his option and instantly guaranteeing $7 million of his $18 million salary for the year.
Miller has spent his entire career with the Broncos and is wrapping up a six-year, $114.5 million deal he signed back in 2016. But he missed the entire 2020 season and the Broncos will want to be sure he is fully healed before committing to him in 2021.
The Broncos are in a weird spot as an organization. They are going to go as far as Drew Lock takes them and it is now important to build around the young quarterback in 2021. That, or make a blockbuster trade for Deshaun Watson.
Getting Miller back for at least one more year help keeps stability on defense after a fourth straight losing season. He routinely averages over 10 sacks per season and his absence was a tremendous loss in 2020.
Declining Miller’s option and letting him hit the open market is unnecessary if the Broncos want him back. His off-the-field issues may be the only thing that need to be figured out before the option is picked up.