The Denver Broncos led the NFL in total defense (283.1 yards per game), pass defense (199.6 yards per game) and sacks (52) during the 2015 regular season, and that high-level performance has continued in two playoff victories on the way to Super Bowl 50.
Leading the pass rushing charge for the Broncos is outside linebacker Von Miller, who had a team-leading (and tied for eighth in the league) 11 sacks during the regular season, and his 2.5 sack performance with an interception against the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game helped propel Denver to the Super Bowl.
Miller is also set to hit free agency this offseason, with the possibility to become the league’s highest-paid defensive player, and he is sure to be highly coveted by any team with a 3-4 defensive scheme that has ample salary cap space. But if a long-term deal can’t be agreed upon, the Broncos have the franchise tag available to keep Miller in the fold for at least one more season, which seems fairly certain to happen. In any case, by whatever means are necessary, the Broncos can’t afford to let Miller hit the free agent market in March.
Miller will turn 27 on March 26, so he is still in his prime with many good years likely left in his career. He has at least 11 sacks in four of his five NFL seasons, with the only exception a suspension and torn ACL shortened 2013 season (five sacks). He also became the third-fastest player in league history to reach 50 career sacks last September, doing so in his 58th career game.
The Broncos are sure to have a strong defense again next season, no matter who comes and goes during the offseason, but a player with difference-making talent always has a place. Miller is definitely that kind of player, and that’s why keeping him will surely be John Elway‘s No. 1 offseason priority.
