3 surprise cuts the Broncos could make this offseason
2. OLB Von Miller
Here’s the big one. Miller missed all of the 2020 season after suffering a dislocated ankle tendon, which invited instant speculation he had played his last snap with the Broncos. An extra layer is the notion of a criminal investigation against him, the details of which have not yet come to full light. But let’s assume the Broncos know more about that than the public does right now.
As with Jackson, the Broncos have an option decision looming on Miller–$7 million of his $18 million 2021 salary by March 16. Not picking up the option would function the same as cutting the Super Bowl 50 MVP, and it would clear that entire $18 million base salary off the books with $4.125 million in dead money.
Paton's options on Von's option to guar $7M of $18M pay in '21:
— Mike Klis (@mikeklis) February 17, 2021
1. Restructure to reduce $18M. Would likely include extension at reduced avg. salary.
2. Pick up $7M option; play out final yr at $18M
3. Pick up $7M option; try to trade him
4. Decline option; release him.#9sports https://t.co/3Qq63WFqDp
Ideally, if they don’t want him anymore and a restructure isn’t on the radar, the Broncos would find someone to trade Miller to. But it’s hard to see another team wanting to take on that kind of money for a player who has been in decline, is now coming off a major (unique) injury and will be 32 years old when he’s on the field next.
Miller has had a nice run in Denver, with 106 sacks in nine seasons on the field. But it’s probably over, unless he’s willing to take a big financial haircut to stay. His name and resume is what would make his cut a surprise for the Broncos.