Buffalo Bills release NFL's active sacks leader Von Miller in a salary cap-saving move
The Buffalo Bills have officially announced the release of veteran edge rusher Von Miller, a decision driven by the high cost of his contract compared to his limited playing time and production. This move is expected to save the team approximately $8.4 million in salary cap space, critical as they approach the NFL's new year. Despite the release, a portion of Miller's contract will still count against the cap, projected to be over $15 million.
The announcement featured a heartfelt tribute from the Bills, sharing a photo of Miller with the message "Thank You Von." The 14-year NFL veteran, who is the active leader in sacks and will turn 36 soon, had managed to avoid release last year by accepting a substantial pay cut. However, it remains uncertain if the team explored a similar restructuring this offseason.
Miller expressed hope earlier this year about remaining a Buffalo Bill following the team’s loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship game, stating he believed both parties wanted to continue their relationship. Bills general manager Brandon Beane, when asked about Miller’s future, was noncommittal, indicating they were still assessing roster options.
Since joining the Bills with high expectations after signing a lucrative six-year, $120 million contract, Miller has struggled to deliver on his potential. After a promising start in the 2022 season, where he recorded eight sacks in just ten games, a torn ACL limited him significantly, and he failed to register any sacks in the 2023 season.
As Miller enters free agency for the second time at the age of 36, his future remains uncertain. With 129.5 career sacks, he ranks 16th all-time since the NFL began officially tracking the statistic, behind notable players like Lawrence Taylor and Leslie O'Neal. Drafted second overall in 2011, Miller spent the majority of his career with the Denver Broncos, where he won two Super Bowls and earned a reputation as one of the league's top defenders.