Deal Reached Between Commanders to Strengthen Pass Rush by Negotiations with Von Miller, According to Reports
The Washington Commanders have made a bold move in their offseason acquisitions, signing veteran edge rusher Von Miller to a one-year contract. The 36-year-old, who is the NFL's active sack leader with 129.5 career sacks, joins the Commanders with high expectations for the upcoming 2025 NFL season.
Miller, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft, had six sacks in 13 games last season with the Buffalo Bills. His impact on the Commanders' pass rush is expected to be significant, albeit with realistic expectations given his age and recent performance.
Von Miller's addition to the Commanders' roster brings a wealth of experience and leadership as an eight-time Pro Bowler. While he is no longer the elite speed rusher of his prime, he remains an effective and explosive pass rusher who can provide valuable mentorship on the defense.
The Commanders likely view Miller as a strategic "closer" who can be used in key pass-rushing situations to "provide defensive punctuations," similar to the way legendary closer Mariano Rivera was used in baseball. Miller doesn't have to be the centerpiece but rather a valuable chess piece who can create key impactful moments.
Miller's recent injury and limited playtime mean he may not consistently dominate but can still find "great rushes" when motivated. He suffered a major ACL injury in late 2022 and acknowledged he probably should not have played the full 2023 season due to recovery challenges. He was also suspended for four games in 2023 for a personal conduct policy violation.
Besides his pass-rush skills, Miller's presence in the locker room and the veteran stability he adds to the defense are considered beneficial for team culture and younger players developing on the defensive front.
The Commanders have also acquired star left tackle Laremy Tunsil and star wide receiver Deebo Samuel, both with the intention of providing rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels with more stability on the offensive line and another weapon at wide receiver.
The Commanders have had an active offseason, acquiring several key players after winning 12 games and reaching the NFC Championship Game in the previous season. In addition to Miller, they have also acquired linebacker Bobby Wagner, tight end Zach Ertz, and pass rushers Dorance Armstrong, Deatrich Wise Jr., and Jacob Martin.
With these acquisitions, the Commanders aim to provide Daniels with more stability on the offensive line and another weapon at wide receiver while bolstering their pass rush with experienced players like Miller. The Washington Commanders are clearly gearing up for a strong 2025 season.
Von Miller, after joining the Washington Commanders, will bring his eight-time Pro Bowl experience and leadership to the sports arena, specifically American football, aiming to make a significant impact in the NFL, particularly in football games, as the team strengthens their pass rush, with high expectations set for the upcoming 2025 season.
Regardless of the occasional limitations due to his age and recent performance, Miller's expertise and mentorship on the defense remain invaluable, providing key moments of impact during pass-rushing situations, similar to the strategic approach of a legendary baseball closer.
