Washington Commanders Secure Veteran Pass Rusher in Final Career Stage
The Washington Commanders are making a significant addition to their defensive lineup by signing a seasoned pass rusher, albeit one nearing the end of his professional journey. This move signals the franchise’s intent to bolster their pass rush with experienced talent.
High-Profile Acquisition: Von Miller Joins Washington
Sources close to the negotiations have revealed that Washington is poised to sign two-time Super Bowl champion Von Miller to a one-year contract. An anonymous insider shared this information with The Washington Post on Wednesday, prior to any official announcement. Miller himself hinted at the move through a social media post late Wednesday night, simply asking, “DC… What’s good??”
Veteran Experience and Career Highlights
At 36 years old, Miller is entering his 15th NFL season, having missed the 2020 campaign due to injury. He currently ranks 16th all-time in sacks with 129.5 and boasts three All-Pro selections along with eight Pro Bowl appearances. His extensive experience and proven production make him a valuable addition, even as he approaches the twilight of his career.
Reuniting with Familiar Faces and Building a Leadership Presence
In Washington, Miller will reconnect with General Manager Adam Peters, who was a Denver Broncos scout when Miller was drafted second overall in 2011. Additionally, he will team up with Ryan Kerrigan, a fellow 2011 draft class member who now serves as the assistant linebackers coach for the Commanders. This reunion could foster a mentorship dynamic, helping to guide younger defenders on the roster.
Contributing to a Championship Contender
Miller joins a roster that includes other seasoned veterans such as tight end Zach Ertz, wide receiver Deebo Samuel, and running back Austin Ekeler-all of whom are eager to demonstrate they can still impact a team vying for a Super Bowl title. Their collective experience could be pivotal in Washington’s pursuit of postseason success.
From College Stardom to NFL Elite
After a prolific college career at Texas A&M, Miller quickly established himself as a dominant force in the NFL. His rookie season saw him earn the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award and a Pro Bowl nod, thanks to 11.5 sacks. The peak of his career came in 2015 when he played a crucial role in Denver’s top-ranked defense, which led the Broncos to victory in Super Bowl 50 against the Carolina Panthers.
Memorable Moments and Playoff Success
During that Super Bowl run, Miller recorded two strip sacks and was credited with a half-sack of Panthers quarterback Cam Newton, earning him Super Bowl MVP honors. His ability to make game-changing plays in high-stakes moments cemented his reputation as one of the league’s premier pass rushers.
Injuries and Career Challenges
In 2020, Miller’s season was cut short due to an ankle injury-specifically a dislocated peroneal tendon-just days before the season opener. The following year, he was traded to the Los Angeles Rams, where he sought another shot at the Super Bowl. He debuted with the Rams in Week 10 and contributed two sacks in Super Bowl LVI, helping secure a narrow victory over the Cincinnati Bengals.
Recent Career and Off-Field Issues
In 2022, Miller signed a lucrative six-year, $120 million contract with the Buffalo Bills, but injuries and off-the-field complications have hampered his recent performances. He tore his ACL in November 2022 and started the 2023 season on the physically unable to perform list. Later that season, he faced legal scrutiny after an arrest warrant was issued in connection with a domestic violence case. Miller denied the allegations, and no criminal charges were filed. The NFL conducted its own investigation, resulting in a four-game suspension for violating the league’s personal conduct policy.
Career Resilience and Future Outlook
This suspension marked Miller’s second in the NFL; he previously served six games in 2013 for violating the substance-abuse policy. He was reinstated in 2015 after passing two years of clean drug tests. Despite recent setbacks, Miller played 25 games over the past two seasons, recording six sacks for Buffalo last year. His future with Washington will largely depend on his health and ability to produce at this stage of his career, but his veteran presence could be a valuable asset for the team’s defensive ambitions.