Denver Broncos linebacker, Von Miller, was just awarded one of the most lucrative deals in NFL history. Miller signed a six-year, $114.5 million deal with over $70 million in guarantees. That is the most guaranteed money for a non-quarterback in NFL history.
Some experts might look at this deal as a huge risk. Dishing out $70 million in guarantees to a player who could potentially end up injured and/or not performing to his capabilities could backfire on the Broncos, but ESPN’s Mark Schlereth wasn’t phased.
Schlereth called Miller a “freak show” and reminded Broncos fans how athletic and valuable he really is.
“His ability to convert speed to power, to turn a corner, the guy is basically sideways when he turns corners,” Schlereth said on ESPN.com. “His balance is second to none, his ability to rush the passer, he is a guy that makes you change the way you look at defense.”
Without Miller’s presence the Broncos would have had to call on second year player Shane Ray and inexperienced linebacker Shaquil Barrett. Although both could have made an impact, eventually, the team didn’t want to take any chances.
It was important that Miller got the contract he deserved, because the rest of league and the free agents to come will be able to use his contract in their negotiations to evaluate their own worth.
If one of the best defensive player in the NFL didn’t earn what he’s worth, then how would any soon-to-be free agents have any leverage at the negotiating table? The bar, in other words, would be set low.
Schlereth’s co-anchor and former Indianapolis Colts center Jeff Saturday agreed with him and added praise to the Broncos decision in paying Miller.
“No regrets, not one letter,” Saturday said. “This football team lived and won the Super Bowl — basically the last three games of the playoffs — because of Von Miller. However much you paid him, he has not only already earned it, he will continue to earn it.”
Saturday also mentioned how smart Miller was in depicting offensive schemes and understanding what quarterbacks like Tom Brady and others are trying to do.
“The sky’s the limit for this kid,” Saturday added.
Only time will tell if Miller was worth the contract he was given, but for now Broncos fans can all rejoice and scream, Hallelujah! as Von Miller will be a Denver Bronco for a long time coming.