The Washington Commanders are making the call to help boost the defense heading into training camp by signing a Super Bowl champion that knows how to get to the quarterback.
There's been major questions about how the Commanders have approached the edge position this offseason after passing up on big-name free agents, and electing not to draft one as well. We finally have our answer as Von Miller announces on Instagram that he is signing with the Commanders.
Washington lost a lot of production when it comes to sacks with the loss of Dante Fowler Jr, and Miller could be the one that fills that void on the Commanders' defense this season. Miller is coming to Washington on a one-year deal according to Adam Schefter, so at least they have a temporary, yet effective solution to make the most of the 2025 season.
What role will Von Miller have on Washington's defense?
After watching Miller play with the Buffalo Bills last season, it's safe to say Miller will have a specific role carved out for him, and that's simply getting into the backfield on third and fourth down. In 2024, the former Super Bowl MVP collected six sacks on only 209 pass rushing snaps, and added 32 pressures and 23 QB hits.
Don't expect Miller to be the guy to put his hand in the dirt on first and second down, but Washington was in dire need of someone who could make the big play. You can expect defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr to send pressure with Miller, Dorance Armstrong, and Frankie Luvu on key moments of the game. Washinton finished the season with only five sacks in the fourth quarter, and that's where Miller can thrive.
Why Von Miller?
The answer is simple, this is the blueprint that General Manager Adam Peters has followed since coming to Washington. He's going to get his guys, and make the moves needed to get production at important positions. Peters was also a scout for the Denver Broncos in 2011 when the team drafted Miller second overall.
The Commanders made a notable amount of moves to bring in veterans such as Bobby Wagner and Zach Ertz that can still elevate the team, and both made huge contributions to making it to the NFC Championships game, and Miller could do the same.
Miller is going to help with more than just getting sack production numbers though. He's also a notable mentor who hosts pass-rushing camps in the offseason, and trains top edge rushers around the league. Washington can expect the defensive line room to instantly improve with the presence of an all-time great joining the team, and that starts on the practice field at training camp.
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