As we learned earlier this evening, the Broncos and linebacker Von Miller appear to be on the precipice of reaching a six-year deal that will contain $70MM in “solid” guarantees, and while it’s unclear exactly what “solid” refers to in this case, it’s fair to assume that Miller will receive $70MM either fully guaranteed or effectively guaranteed. But Miller was apparently seeking a higher total not too long ago — $75MM to be exact, according to Jason Cole of Bleacher Report (Twitter link), who adds that Miller set that financial goal after Andrew Luck agreed to a mega-deal with the Colts last month. However the specifics of Miler’s pact turn out, he’s set to become the highest paid defensive player in NFL history on an annual basis, and depending on the nature of the guarantees, could secure the largest amount of guaranteed money the league has ever seen.
Here’s more on Miller, the Broncos, and a few other clubs from the NFL’s West divisions:
- While Miller is worth the nearly $20MM per year salary that he’s about to earn, Mark Kiszla of the Denver Post opines that Miller might not be the wisest investment for the Broncos. The negotiations between general manager John Elway and Miller’s camp have been sticky at times, and could make a lasting impression as other free agents talk with Denver management. The Broncos, meanwhile, have paused talks with wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders while hammering out details with Miller, and Kiszla argues that no non-quarterback — no matter how talented — can provide surplus value when earning $20MM per annum.
- Speaking of troublesome negotiations, Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk harkens back to 2013, when the Broncos failed to complete the necessary paperwork on a contract restructure for Elvis Dumervil — after a deadline came and went, Dumervil hit free agency and ultimately signed with the Ravens. So although reports indicate that Miller and Denver are close to working something out, the two sides may want to submit the agreement ahead of time in order to prevent another fiasco.
- Appearing on SiriusXM NFL Radio today, linebacker LaMarr Woodley lamented the fact that no NFL teams have thus far expressed interest in him, and maintained that he’s kept in shape throughout the offseason. “I can’t make a team call me. So all I can do is prepare myself and keep myself ready, but also I’m going to make sure that my mind is working and that I’m doing other things — things that I can control,” said Woodley, who spent 2015 with the Cardinals. The 31-year-old suggested last month that he’s prepared for life after football if he isn’t able to secure a contract.
- NFC West newcomer Chandler Jones will help the Cardinals generate a consistent pass rush during the upcoming season, writes Sheil Kapadia of ESPN.com. Arizona and defensive coordinator James Bettcher are well-known for “manufacturing” an edge rush, sending players from various directions and from different fronts in order to get to the quarterback. But Jones, who posted 12.5 sacks last year for the Patriots, gives the Cards a player who can beat offensive lineman on his own merit.