**MILLER DEAL REVEALED: Commanders Secure Von Miller on a High-Upside One-Year Deal**
The Washington Commanders have made a significant addition to their defense, signing veteran edge rusher Von Miller to a one-year contract worth $6.1 million, with the potential to reach $10.5 million if all incentives are met. The deal, confirmed by league sources, marks a major move for a Commanders team looking to bolster its pass rush with a proven playmaker. Miller, a future Hall of Famer and two-time Super Bowl champion, is expected to join the team when veterans report to training camp later this month.
At 36 years old, Miller is no longer the dominant force he was during his prime, but his leadership, experience, and situational pass-rushing ability make him a valuable asset for a Washington defense in transition. The Commanders, under new head coach Dan Quinn, are looking to establish a more aggressive defensive identity, and Miller’s presence should help mentor younger players while still contributing on the field.
Miller’s base salary of $6.1 million is a team-friendly figure, reflecting both his age and recent injury history. However, the additional $4.4 million in achievable incentives provide Miller with the opportunity to earn a much more lucrative payout if he stays healthy and performs at a high level. These incentives are likely tied to sack totals, playing time, and possibly postseason accolades—common benchmarks for veteran pass rushers on incentive-laden deals.
This structure benefits both sides: the Commanders mitigate risk by not overcommitting financially, while Miller gets a chance to prove he still has plenty left in the tank. If he meets or exceeds expectations, he could position himself for another short-term deal next offseason—either in Washington or elsewhere.
Even in the latter stages of his career, Von Miller remains one of the most respected defensive players in the NFL. His resume speaks for itself:
– **Super Bowl MVP (2015)** – Miller’s legendary performance in Super Bowl 50 (2.5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles) propelled the Denver Broncos to victory.
– **8-time Pro Bowler** – A consistent force off the edge for over a decade.
– **Second-most postseason sacks in NFL history (13.5)** – Only behind Bruce Smith (14.5).
– **Championship Pedigree** – Won rings with the Broncos (2015) and Rams (2021).
While his 2023 season with the Buffalo Bills was marred by injuries (just 3 sacks in 12 games), Miller has shown he can still be effective in a rotational role. His burst off the edge, advanced hand-fighting techniques, and ability to disrupt quarterbacks in critical moments make him a valuable situational rusher.
More importantly, his leadership will be crucial for a Commanders defense that features young talents like Jonathan Allen, Daron Payne, and first-round pick Laiatu Latu (assuming Washington drafts or signs another edge rusher). Miller’s work ethic and championship experience could accelerate the development of Washington’s younger defenders.
New Commanders head coach Dan Quinn has a history of maximizing veteran pass rushers. During his time as the Dallas Cowboys’ defensive coordinator, Quinn helped revitalize the careers of players like Dante Fowler and Dorance Armstrong. Now, he’ll look to do the same with Miller.
Quinn’s defensive scheme emphasizes speed, versatility, and relentless pressure. Miller may not be an every-down player at this stage, but he can still thrive as a designated pass rusher on obvious passing downs. His ability to line up at multiple spots—whether as a traditional defensive end or a stand-up outside linebacker—gives Quinn flexibility in designing creative blitz packages.
Additionally, Miller’s presence should take some attention away from Washington’s interior defensive linemen, allowing Allen and Payne to face more one-on-one matchups. If the Commanders can generate consistent pressure with their front four, it will ease the burden on a secondary that has undergone its own overhaul this offseason.
The signing of Von Miller is just the latest in a series of aggressive moves by the Commanders’ new regime. Under owner Josh Harris and general manager Adam Peters, Washington has been proactive in reshaping its roster, particularly on defense.
Key additions include:
– **LB Bobby Wagner** – Another veteran leader with ties to Dan Quinn from their Seattle days.
– **S Jeremy Chinn** – A versatile defensive back who can play multiple roles.
– **CB Michael Davis** – Adds depth to a revamped secondary.
Pairing Miller with Wagner gives Washington two of the most respected defensive minds in the game, both of whom can help instill a winning culture in the locker room.
While Miller’s track record is undeniable, there are legitimate questions about how much he has left physically. He suffered a torn ACL in 2022 and looked a step slower last season. At 36, recovery takes longer, and the wear-and-tear of an NFL season could limit his availability.
However, the Commanders are likely viewing this as a low-risk, high-reward move. If Miller stays healthy, he could be a difference-maker in close games. If not, Washington isn’t financially handcuffed by the deal.
The Von Miller signing is a calculated gamble by the Commanders—one that could pay off handsomely if he stays on the field. Even if he’s no longer the perennial Defensive Player of the Year candidate he once was, his experience, leadership, and situational pass-rushing ability make him a valuable piece for a team looking to compete in a tough NFC East.
With training camp just around the corner, all eyes will be on Miller as he looks to prove he still has something left in the tank. If he does, the Commanders’ defense could be much more dangerous than many expect in 2024.
For now, Washington fans have reason to be excited—their team just added a future Hall of Famer, and the best may be yet to come.
