Key Takeaways:
– Buffalo Bills may part ways with edge rusher, Von Miller, clearing $8.8 million in cap space.
– The move would likely be a combination of financial strategy and the desire to provide room for younger players.
– Despite agreeing to a pay cut, Miller struggled significantly last season after returning from a torn ACL.
– Might explore the market for less expensive veterans such as Yannick Ngakoue and Markus Golden.
Buffalo Bills Consider Miller’s Future
After a disappointing season, Buffalo Bills’ edge rusher Von Miller could be parting ways with the team, opening the door for emerging talent to step up and shine. Following his struggle to make a comeback after tearing his ACL, Miller continued to be a non-starter in subsequent games, marking a low in his career with the Bills.
The potential departure of the $120 million star constitutes a strategic cost-cutting move. In doing so, the team would secure more cap space, as suggested by a recent report from Bleacher Report.
The Bills’ Potential Cap Space Increase
The Bills’ cap space took a hit following a series of releases and contract restructures. However, parting ways with Miller could alleviate these strains. According to the report, a post-June 1 trade or release of Miller could yield significant cap savings for the Bills. Despite engendering a $23.3 million dead cap hit, the savings could reach up to $8.8 million.
Stepping away from Miller is not merely a financial decision. This move could allow the Bills to allocate more playtime to those who made a significant impact on the field last year. Simultaneously, it could provide an opportunity to scout for additions in the free agency market.
Miller’s Struggles and Potential Replacements
Miller’s 2023 season came as a disappointment, with the player ending the year with a measly three total tackles. At 35, he no longer served as the Bills’ starter and was unable to deliver a single sack. However, the team remains optimistic about their line-up, with Greg Rousseau, A.J. Epenesa, and Dawuane Smoot serving as a solid three-man rotation. Other veterans such as Yannick Ngakoue and Markus Golden are also available in the market at less than $8.8 million.
Making Sacrifices and Paving the Way
In a steadfast commitment to aiding the team, Miller agreed to a pay cut earlier this season, thereby reducing his salary cap number by $8.02 million. Brandon Beane, the Bills’ general manager, praised Miller, especially considering the edge rusher’s aspirations to become a general manager himself.
He openly commended Miller’s decision to accept less than his guaranteed salary for the betterment of the team. He praised Miller’s spirit, determination, and respect for the team, viewing his sacrifice as evidence of his commitment to lead the Bills to victory.
However, the decision about Miller’s future with the team remains undecided. Whether he departs or continues, his commitment and sacrifices for the team set a benchmark of dedication and team spirit in the NFL. As the Buffalo Bills look ahead, strategies for cost-cutting and talent scouting might just be their ticket to a stronger team in the 2024 season.