Von Miller

Lore & Background

During his single season with the team, he was viewed as the veteran glue holding the pressure together. While his time there was brief compared to other eras, the impact of a former Defensive Player of the Year on the field resonated through every practice and game day in Orchard Park.

Reader's Guide

Von Miller stands as a titan of pass rush, bringing decades of elite experience to the Buffalo defense. Known for his explosive first step and relentless motor, he serves as both a playmaker and a mentor to younger linemen. His arc during his time in Western New York represents a veteran resurgence, aiming to add another championship ring to his collection after winning Super Bowl 50 with Denver. Skills include elite hand usage, bend around the edge, and blitz reading. He does not rely solely on speed but uses technique to collapse pockets. Defining moments include anchoring the defensive line during crucial playoff pushes and elevating the unit's overall pressure rate. His presence signaled a commitment to winning immediately for the franchise. Miller’s leadership extended beyond the field, often guiding rookies through complex schemes. While his tenure was brief in terms of years, the impact on the locker room culture was significant. He proved that championship pedigree could translate into immediate on-field production even late in a career. Fans remember him as the final piece intended to cement a Super Bowl run during that specific campaign.

Did You Know?

• He wore jersey number 58 during his time with the Bills.
• His signing was a major free agency coup for the franchise in 2023.

College career

Miller played for Texas A&M from 2007 to 2010. As a freshman defensive end in 2007, he earned Freshman All-Big 12 honors from The Sporting News with 22 tackles, 2 sacks, 4 tackles for loss, and a forced fumble. In spring 2008, new head coach Mike Sherman suspended Miller for poor habits; Miller considered transferring but stayed at his father's insistence. As a sophomore weakside linebacker in 2008, he made 44 tackles and led the team with 3.5 sacks. In 2009, playing the jack position, he led the nation with 17 sacks and was named first-team All-American by Sporting News and Sports Illustrated. As a senior in 2010, playing 3–4 outside linebacker, he posted 10.5 sacks and 17.5 tackles for loss, won the Butkus Award, and was a consensus first-team All-American. He graduated in poultry science and raises chickens.

Professional career

Miller entered the 2011 NFL draft as a top prospect. At the Senior Bowl, he was Defensive MVP. At the combine, he set a linebacker record in the 60-yard shuttle (11.15 seconds) and ranked first in the broad jump and three-cone drill. At his pro day, he ran a 4.49-second 40-yard dash. In March 2011, he joined NFL labor talks with rookies. The Denver Broncos selected him second overall in the 2011 draft, the highest-drafted linebacker since 2000. He signed his rookie contract on July 28, 2011, and wore number 58 in honor of Derrick Thomas. In his first career play, he forced a fumble against the Raiders. He recorded his first sack on Andy Dalton in Week 2. Miller was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week for Week 11, made the 2012 Pro Bowl, and won AP Defensive Rookie of the Year. In 907 snaps, he had 11.5 sacks, 19 quarterback hits, and 29 hurries. In 2012, he started fast with 10 sacks in nine games.