Should the Broncos Bring Von Miller Back for One Final Run?
Few players are more closely tied to the identity of the Denver Broncos than Von Miller. The future Hall of Fame pass rusher spent the first decade of his career with the Broncos, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in franchise history.
Now, the possibility of a reunion has quietly resurfaced.
Miller is currently an unrestricted free agent, and while his reported preference is to re-sign with the Washington Commanders, he has also expressed interest in returning to Denver if that scenario does not materialize. The Broncos don’t necessarily need another pass rusher, but the idea of bringing back a franchise icon for one final chapter is intriguing.
All things considered, should Denver seriously consider a reunion?
The Case for Bringing Miller Back
Even at this stage of his career, Miller could still provide value to the Broncos.
Miller will be 37 by the start of the 2026 season and is no longer the dominant every-down edge rusher who terrorized quarterbacks during his prime. However, Miller has shown he can still be productive in a rotational role, as he tallied nine sacks with the Commanders in 2025. As a situational pass rusher, he could provide fresh legs in obvious passing situations while helping maintain the effectiveness of Denver’s existing edge defenders over the course of a long season.
Beyond his on-field contributions, Miller’s leadership could also be valuable in the locker room. Few players understand what it takes to succeed in a Broncos uniform more than Miller, who helped lead Denver to a victory in Super Bowl 50 while earning the game’s MVP honors.
Miller also remains the most accomplished pass rusher in franchise history. He holds the Broncos’ franchise records for regular-season sacks (110.5) and postseason sacks (6.5). During Denver’s 2015 championship run, Miller elevated his game even further, recording five combined sacks in the AFC Championship Game and Super Bowl 50.
That experience could be particularly valuable for a team that still features several young defensive players. Having a respected veteran presence who has been through the highs and lows of an NFL season could provide an added layer of mentorship.
Of course, there’s also the emotional side of the equation. Miller remains one of the most beloved players in Broncos history, and a return to Denver would undoubtedly energize the fanbase. For a franchise legend, finishing his career where it began would be a fitting storybook ending.
The Case Against a Reunion
While the idea of bringing Miller back carries plenty of sentimental appeal, it may not make as much sense from a roster-building perspective.
The Broncos already possess solid depth along the edge, led by two-time Pro Bowl outside linebacker Nik Bonitto and fellow starter Jonathon Cooper. With those two firmly established as the team’s primary pass rushers, Denver may prefer to continue developing younger options behind them rather than adding another veteran to the rotation.
Age and durability are also legitimate concerns. Miller has battled injuries in recent seasons, and expecting him to make a significant impact over the course of a full schedule may be unrealistic. At this stage of his career, his role would likely need to be carefully managed.
There’s also the broader question of roster flexibility. Teams often prefer to use their final roster spots on younger players who can develop over time or contribute on special teams. The Broncos have younger outside linebackers such as Jonah Elliss and Dondrea Tillman who are still developing while contributing on special teams. Signing Miller – who would likely play only a situational defensive role and not contribute on special teams – could force Denver to part ways with one of those younger players to make room on the roster.
Final Verdict: A Reunion Could Still Make Sense Under the Right Circumstances
Even if the Broncos don’t need Miller in the traditional sense, there’s still a scenario where a reunion could work.
If Denver views Miller as a situational pass rusher and locker room leader rather than a full-time contributor, the move could make sense on a one-year, league-minimum deal. In that role, he could provide valuable depth while also serving as a mentor to younger defenders.
Ultimately, the decision may come down to timing. If Miller does not re-sign with Washington and the Broncos find themselves looking for additional pass rush depth later in the offseason, bringing back a familiar face could become a logical option.
Denver may not need Von Miller the way it once did. But if the opportunity presents itself, a reunion between the franchise and one of its greatest players might still be worth exploring.
