Jackpot! Vonn Miller Just Broke The Bank
15 Jul, 2016
For Broncos fans frustrated with the lack of resolution in the Von Miller contract talks, Thursday night tempered anxiety. The sides moved in the right direction with $70 million in guaranteed money, according to an NFL source, leaving optimism that a landmark deal — the most money ever for a nonquarterback in league history — will be struck Friday before the 2 p.m. deadline.
Negotiations last week, combined with recent progress, left the sides within striking distance of a contract that could accomplish Miller’s goal of remaining a “Bronco for life.” The all-pro outside linebacker has long been comfortable with the terms of the contract at six years, $114.5 million. Reaching the finish line has been predicated on guaranteed money. The Broncos eclipsed $57.5 million last week, not including $1.3 million in roster and workout bonuses, and made a move to push Miller to $70 million leading up to Friday’s deadline. It represents a remarkable juxtaposition from the $38.5 million guaranteed June 7, when talks stalled after the Broncos’ contract proposal leaked to the media, upsetting Miller. Once the Philadelphia Eagles’ Fletcher Cox received $63 million in a contract extension last month, the floor was established for Miller, the MVP of Super Bowl 50.
Miller sought more than Cox in what he viewed as a more apt comparison to him than Justin Houston’s franchise tag talks that produced $52.5 million guaranteed a year ago from the Kansas City Chiefs. Miller’s teammates predicted he would sign, but the lack of a deal has created nervous moments in the Rocky Mountain region. The Broncos experienced a turbulent offseason, and the possibility of Miller holding out in training camp would have created an unnerving distraction. Miller, 27, promised to sit out the 2016 season rather than play under the $14.1 million exclusive franchise tag, which prevented other teams from negotiating with him.
But after talks thawed last week, the sides built a deal worthy of a player of Miller’s status. He is considered one of the league’s top players, and delivered five sacks in the playoffs last season. As one former Denver player admitted, Miller was to the 2015 Broncos what running back Terrell Davis was to the 1997 team. The Broncos’ contract proposal to Miller reflects major ground covered by general manager John Elway and Miller’s agent, Joby Branion. Not working out a deal sooner with Miller after the 2015 season helped Miller because the market shifted — with less accomplished players, Cox included, driving up the price.
On a Denver defense pressure and coverage, Miller is the anchor. With quarterbacks Peyton Manning and Brock Osweiler gone, he also is set to become the face of the franchise.
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