Now that he’s been named Super Bowl 50 MVP, everyone wants to know more about Denver Broncos linebacker Von Miller. Here are 10 things to know about the talented pass rush specialist.
10. Caused A Fumble On His First Career Play From Scrimmage
Getty ImagesMiller kicked off his NFL career in epic fashion by causing a fumble on his first snap against the Oakland Raiders.
9. He's A Chicken Farmer
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In 2013, Miller bought 38 chickens to raise on his eight-acre property outside Dallas. In retirement, Miller wants to take things to the next level with a gargantuan farm. He even has a tattoo of a chicken on his leg.
8. Almost Left Texas A&M After Freshman Season
Twitter"That was probably the best thing that ever happened," Miller said. "He was like, 'You can transfer if you want. I'll sign your papers, anywhere you want to go."
Miller got his stuff together and drove 45 miles toward his hometown before his father convinced him to go back over the phone.
Mike Sherman took over as head coach of Texas A&M after Miller's freshman season. Miller was missing classes on the regular, so Sherman suspended him for the spring game. Miller said it was a blessing in disguise.
"That was probably the best thing that ever happened," Miller said. "He was like, 'You can transfer if you want. I'll sign your papers, anywhere you want to go."
Miller got his stuff together and drove 45 miles toward his hometown before his father convinced him to go back over the phone.
7. Was First Linebacker To Be Selected As High As No. 2 Overall In NFL Draft In 11 Years
Getty ImagesWhen Von Miller was selected at No. 2 overall in the 2011 NFL Draft, he became the first linebacker to be selected that high in 11 years since LaVar Arrington was taken by the Washington Redskins in 2000.
6. Wears No. 58 In Honor Of The Late Derrick Thomas
TwitterMiller wears the No. 58 in honor of the late Derrick Thomas, who was his favorite player growing up.
5. Was Considered A Second-Round Talent After Junior Season
TwitterMiller was one of the rare players to stay in college for all four seasons. Had he declared for the NFL draft after his junior year, it's likely he would have been taken no earlier than the second round. Staying in college helped him tremendously, as he was selected at No. 2 overall in 2011.
4. Had Offers From Florida, Ole Miss, Oklahoma and Texas Tech
TwitterMiller was considered a four-star recruit coming out of high school, and was ranked as the 15th best weakside linebacker in the country. Naturally, he had a number of offers from big schools like Florida, Ole Miss, Oklahoma and Texas Tech, but ultimately settled on Texas A&M.
3. LaDainian Tomlinson Persuaded Miller To Represent Top Flight Rookies In NFL Labor Union Talks
TwitterIn 2011, the NFLPA and NFL owners were entrenched in a labor dispute. Despite initially wanting nothing to do with the case, LaDainian Tomlinson convinced Miller to represent the top flight rookies in court.
2. Third-Fastest Player To Reach 50 Sacks
Getty ImagesOn September 17, 2005 Miller became the third-fastest player to reach 50 sacks in NFL history (58 games). He trails only his idol Derrick Thomas (54) and Reggie White (40), both of whom are Hall of Famers.
1. Ran Track In High School
TwitterAt DeSoto High School in DeSoto, Texas, Miller was not only a star on the gridiron, but he also ran track. Miller competed in the 110m hurdles, triple jump and javelin throw.
