The Washington Commanders rightfully focused their attention on defense over the first wave of free agency. General manager Adam Peters had no other option, and there is now more energy across the board after a flurry of signings.
Going away from the aging, ring-chasing veterans past their prime was imperative. Peters is off to a good start, but more is required. And for some who joined Washington hoping to hoist the Vince Lombardi trophy in 2025, they'll be free to take their chances elsewhere.
One of those is Von Miller. He finished as the team's sack leader last season, which is all you need to know about Washington's fortunes on the defensive edge. Although the pass-rusher outlined a desire to stay with the Commanders, the signings made so far indicate that won't be the case. And one expert thought a bitter division rival makes a ton of sense.
Cowboys expert urges Dallas to consider Von Miller move as his Commanders role fills
Ryan Heckman of The Landry Hat urged the Dallas Cowboys to make a bid for Miller. His previous connection to Christian Parker, coupled with his production in a rotational role, could further bolster a pass rush that underwent an overhaul this offseason.
"In terms of what [Von] Miller could offer this Cowboys defense, let's first address the fact that he's not an every-down player at this stage. He is going to turn 37 years old later this month and is 100 percent a rotational pass rusher.
"Miller's experience and ability to still be an efficient contributor is also more than worth his estimated market value, set under $6 million courtesy of Spotrac. Six million? Jerry, make it happen."
If the Commanders have made it clear to Miller that he will now be returning, nothing should be off the table. Veteran cornerback Jonathan Jones has already stayed within the division, signing with the Philadelphia Eagles. The Texas A&M product will have no trouble doing the same if he believes it's the right fit.
Miller could still do a job in that regard. The Commanders now have Dorance Armstrong Jr., Odafe Oweh, K'Lavon Chaisson, and Charles Omenihu. They will likely add one or two more in free agency and the 2026 NFL Draft. The future Pro Football Hall of Famer's services are no longer required, but he showed last season that there might be enough juice left for one more productive season.
Going to Dallas may not give the Cowboys any useful insider information, either. Head coach Dan Quinn has a new offensive coordinator in David Blough, who'll be changing the scheme and implementing different blocking concepts. The personnel will also look vastly different, so the Commanders wouldn't have much to worry about if Miller went down this route.
The Commanders have moved on, and rightfully so. Where Miller ends up won't change that fact.