Von Miller, the Denver Broncos’ all-time leader in sacks, has been a cornerstone of the team’s defense since his selection as the second overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft. Over the years, Miller has not only been a dominant force on the field but also a vocal leader in the locker room.
**Departure and Return to the Broncos**
In 2021, the Broncos traded Miller to the Los Angeles Rams, where he played a pivotal role in their Super Bowl LVI victory. After a successful stint with the Rams, Miller returned to the Broncos in 2024, reuniting with the team that drafted him.
In 2021, one of the most significant transactions in recent Denver Broncos history took place when Von Miller, the face of their defense and one of the greatest linebackers in NFL history, was traded to the Los Angeles Rams. This move was seen by many as the end of an era for the Broncos, as Miller had been a fixture in their defense since 2011. However, what followed the trade was not just a new chapter for Miller’s career but also an impactful and unexpected journey that led him to play a crucial role in the Rams’ Super Bowl LVI victory.
### Von Miller’s Departure from the Denver Broncos
Von Miller’s time with the Denver Broncos had been nothing short of remarkable. Since being drafted as the second overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft, Miller had cemented himself as one of the most dominant pass rushers in the NFL. He earned numerous accolades over his career, including being named to multiple Pro Bowls, First-team All-Pro selections, and winning the Super Bowl 50 MVP after the Broncos defeated the Carolina Panthers in 2016.
However, as the 2021 season progressed, it became clear that the Broncos were entering a rebuilding phase. The team had not made the playoffs since 2015 and was in need of new leadership and a fresh direction. This was particularly true at the quarterback position, where Denver was stuck in a cycle of mediocrity with various quarterbacks coming and going. The Broncos decided to start making changes, and Von Miller, despite being a franchise legend, became the subject of trade talks.
Miller had a substantial contract with the Broncos, and his age (he was 32 at the time) made the team question whether they should continue to pay top dollar for a player on the downside of his career. The Broncos were also facing salary cap issues and needed to free up money to pursue other players who could help in their rebuild. So, in November 2021, Miller was traded to the Los Angeles Rams for two second-day draft picks in the 2022 NFL Draft.
While the trade marked the end of Miller’s storied career in Denver, it also sparked a period of reflection for both the team and its fans. Miller had been one of the most beloved players in franchise history, and his departure was emotional for many. However, despite his exit, Miller had nothing but love for Denver, and he remained committed to representing the Broncos’ legacy even though he was moving on to a new team.
### Von Miller Joins the Los Angeles Rams
The Los Angeles Rams had a clear vision in 2021. Under the leadership of head coach Sean McVay and general manager Les Snead, the Rams were in “win-now” mode. The team had already traded for star quarterback Matthew Stafford earlier in the offseason, and they were loaded with talent on both sides of the ball. The Rams were looking to make a Super Bowl run, but they knew that one thing was missing: a dominant pass rusher who could help elevate their defense to championship levels.
Enter Von Miller.
The Rams had one of the most fearsome defenses in the league, led by star defensive tackle Aaron Donald and cornerback Jalen Ramsey. However, they lacked a consistent edge rusher who could take the pressure off their other defenders. Miller, who had been one of the league’s best pass rushers throughout his career, fit that need perfectly. The trade for Miller was a move that sent a clear signal to the league and the Rams’ fanbase that the team was all-in on winning a championship.
Miller’s arrival in Los Angeles was met with excitement and anticipation. While it was clear that he was no longer in his prime, the Rams were betting on his veteran leadership and ability to make big plays in the postseason. Miller’s experience, combined with his natural ability to rush the passer, made him an ideal fit for the Rams as they looked to make a deep playoff run.
### The Impact of Von Miller in the Rams’ Super Bowl LVI Victory
From the moment Von Miller joined the Rams, it was clear that his impact would be felt on the field. While he may not have been the same player who had once been an unstoppable force in Denver, he was still capable of dominating in key moments, and that’s exactly what he did in the playoffs.
Miller’s most significant contributions came during the postseason, where his experience and ability to perform under pressure were invaluable. He was a key player in the Rams’ defense during their Super Bowl LVI run, particularly in the NFC Championship Game against the San Francisco 49ers and the Super Bowl against the Cincinnati Bengals.
In the NFC Championship Game, Miller recorded a critical sack on 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, which helped seal the Rams’ victory and their ticket to the Super Bowl. But it was in the Super Bowl itself that Miller truly made his mark.
During Super Bowl LVI, Miller was a dominant force on the Rams’ defense. He finished the game with two sacks, one of which came at a pivotal moment late in the fourth quarter. With the Bengals driving to potentially take the lead in the game’s final minutes, Miller sacked Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow, forcing the Bengals out of field goal range and allowing the Rams to hold on to their 23-20 lead.
That sack, and the pressure Miller applied throughout the game, were crucial in helping the Rams secure their first Super Bowl victory in over two decades. While the Rams’ defense was full of playmakers, Miller’s experience, leadership, and ability to perform in clutch situations were indispensable. His performance in Super Bowl LVI earned him a place in NFL history as one of the key players in the Rams’ championship run.
### Von Miller’s Legacy
Von Miller’s time with the Los Angeles Rams may have been brief, but it was incredibly impactful. He proved that, even as he entered the later stages of his career, he was still capable of making a huge difference on the biggest stage. His contributions to the Rams’ Super Bowl victory cemented his place as one of the best linebackers of his generation.
Miller’s ability to step up in big moments, his leadership on and off the field, and his ability to mentor younger players made him a perfect fit for the Rams’ championship aspirations. His success in Los Angeles was a testament to his professionalism, work ethic, and the impact of his winning mentality.
For the Broncos, the trade of Miller may have marked the end of an era, but it also allowed them to begin their rebuilding process with the hope of finding a new defensive leader. For Miller, however, his brief time with the Rams demonstrated that he still had plenty of football left to play.
Ultimately, Von Miller’s 2021 trade to the Los Angeles Rams was a turning point in both his career and the Rams’ quest for a championship. His clutch performances in the postseason, particularly during the Super Bowl, showcased his ability to rise to the occasion and play at an elite level when it mattered most. For Rams fans, it was a move that helped deliver a Super Bowl title, and for Miller, it was the perfect way to prove that his greatness was far from over.
**Message to Head Coach Sean Payton**
Upon his return, Miller reached out to Broncos head coach Sean Payton, expressing his enthusiasm and commitment to the team. He conveyed his readiness to contribute to the Broncos’ resurgence and emphasized his dedication to the team’s success.
**Commitment to Leadership and Performance**
Miller’s message to Coach Payton underscored his unwavering commitment to leadership and performance. He expressed his intention to mentor younger players, sharing his extensive experience to elevate the team’s defensive unit. Miller’s dedication to excellence and his passion for the game were evident in his communication with Coach Payton.
**Impact on the Broncos’ Defense**
Miller’s return is anticipated to have a significant impact on the Broncos’ defense. His leadership and experience are expected to inspire the team and enhance their performance on the field. Miller’s presence is seen as a catalyst for the Broncos’ defensive resurgence, bringing a wealth of knowledge and a winning mentality to the locker room.
**Conclusion**
Von Miller’s return to the Denver Broncos signifies more than just the addition of a talented player; it represents a reunion with a leader who embodies the team’s values and aspirations. His message to Coach Payton reflects his dedication to the Broncos’ success and his commitment to mentoring the next generation of players. As the Broncos prepare for the upcoming season, Miller’s leadership is poised to be a driving force in their pursuit of excellence.
For more insights into Von Miller’s journey and his impact on the Broncos, you can watch the following interview:
videoVon Miller discusses playing against the Broncosturn0search1
