Von Miller left the Washington Commanders wanting another go-around with the franchise in 2026. The aging edge rusher thought he was joining a Super Bowl contender, and even though things didn't work out that way, he outlined his desire to help get this storied club back on track.
It didn't take long for that to change, which could hint that a difficult conversation has already taken place between Miller and those in positions of power.
Miller finished 2025 as Washington's leader in sacks with nine. That's a testament to his longevity, but it was a damning indictment of the complete lack of quality in the Commanders' edge-rushing room. General manager Adam Peters will alter that in the coming months, which might leave the eight-time Pro Bowler on the outside looking in.
Von Miller pleads for Broncos swansong with Commanders run over
This probably isn't going unnoticed by Miller. The future Pro Football Hall of Famer turned his recruitment pitch elsewhere, imploring the Denver Broncos to give him a shot in 2026. He wants to help their exciting edge-rushing unit and contribute on the field when needed. This would also allow him to finish his glittering career where it all began.
"Y'all make room for me after this season. Y'all make room for me over there with the Denver Broncos. I would love to be in that linebacker room and give Nic Bonnito all the knowledge that I've got. Everything that I've got, for him to be the best version of himself. I would love to be a Denver Bronco next season and contribute in any way that I can to improve those guys. I would contribute to what you are doing. Watch you, see the way you play, and any of the knowledge that I have, I will give it to you."Von Miller
Asking and getting are two very different things, especially when it comes to having opportunities in the NFL. Miller's proved he can be a servicable pass-rusher even at 36, and he never gave up amid the misery. He's not the dominant game-wrecker of old, but a team like the Broncos wouldn't need him to be.
Miller changed his tune quickly. He went from wanting to stay in Washington to begging for a job in Denver. The Broncos are much further along and better balanced than the Commanders right now, but this also suggests Peters might have already told the Texas A&M product that his services would no longer be required moving forward.
That is the correct call. The Commanders need to get younger and more explosive on the edge. Miller is neither of those things anymore, so a parting of the ways seems almost inevitable.