Von Miller #40 of the Buffalo Bills
Von Miller’s journey with the Buffalo Bills has been anything but smooth. After signing a six-year, $120 million contract in 2022, the hope was that the future Hall of Famer would immediately help elevate the Bills’ defense. Instead, Miller suffered a torn ACL in his first season with the team, and his return to form in 2023 has been a rollercoaster ride, leaving the franchise to contemplate his long-term future in Buffalo.
Despite a career-worst 2022 season with no sacks and just two tackles, Miller showed signs of improvement toward the end of the year, regaining some semblance of his old self in the playoffs. Now, in 2023, Miller has found some rhythm, recording 4.0 sacks so far this season. While it’s a clear step forward, Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine suggests that Miller’s resurgence may not be enough to secure his place on the Bills’ roster beyond this year.
Bills’ Cap Space Strategy Could Spell the End for Miller
As the Bills continue to navigate their cap space issues, Ballentine proposes that Buffalo could part ways with Miller in the coming offseason to free up money for other potential upgrades. The Bills have already made significant moves to clear cap space, letting go of several veteran players, and it appears that Miller could be the next casualty.
Ballentine points out that the Bills have managed to stay competitive despite losing key veterans like Jordan Poyer, Micah Hyde, Stefon Diggs, and Gabe Davis. These departures have helped the team weather the storm, and it gives the Bills confidence to make another bold move: cutting ties with Miller.
The financial implications could be significant. If the Bills cut Miller before June 1, they would save $8.5 million in cap space. If they wait until after June 1, that figure jumps to $17.5 million. The Bills could then look to replace Miller with a more affordable option who could still contribute to the pass rush, an area where Miller’s age and injuries have become apparent.
The Case for Josh Uche as Miller’s Replacement
One potential replacement that Ballentine mentions is linebacker Josh Uche, who was traded from the New England Patriots to the Kansas City Chiefs at the 2023 trade deadline. Uche, who will be a free agent at the end of the season, is currently on a one-year, $3 million contract. If the Bills opt to move on from Miller, Uche could provide a cheaper yet effective pass-rush presence to complement Gregory Rousseau, the team’s primary edge rusher.
Uche, who has flashed explosive ability during his time with the Patriots, could be the perfect complementary piece for the Bills’ defense. Unlike Miller, who carries a hefty price tag, Uche would likely be a more affordable option to shore up Buffalo’s pass rush while maintaining financial flexibility.
The Bills’ Support for Miller Amid Struggles
Despite Miller’s struggles and the off-field controversy that led to his four-game suspension this season following a domestic violence investigation, the Bills have largely stood by him. Head coach Sean McDermott praised Miller’s leadership and veteran presence on the team, acknowledging the importance of his experience and what he brings to the defense, even if his on-field production hasn’t been up to par.
“It’ll be good to have Von back,” McDermott said after Miller’s suspension. “Never sure what that brings, right, in terms of staying refined, staying polished, but I’m sure he’s been chomping at the bit to get back.” McDermott also emphasized the importance of the defensive line working together as a unit, noting that Miller’s return would help, but the focus would remain on team effort rather than individual production.
Looking Ahead: A Tough Decision for the Bills
With Miller’s future in flux, the Bills will have a tough decision to make this offseason. While Miller has shown signs of regaining his form, his performance may not be enough to justify his continued place on the roster, especially if the Bills want to remain flexible with their cap space and potentially add a more affordable pass-rusher like Uche.
Ultimately, the Bills’ decision will hinge on how they value Miller’s leadership and potential for a late-career resurgence versus the financial flexibility they need to continue building a championship-caliber team. The team has already proven they can make tough decisions in the pursuit of long-term success, and with Miller’s contract weighing heavily, they may soon be ready to move on from the once-dominant pass rusher.
As the Bills continue to battle for a playoff spot, the looming question of Von Miller’s future remains a story to watch closely as the offseason approaches.
