Von Miller, the former Denver Broncos linebacker drafted second overall in 2011, has expressed strong support for Bo Nix, the team’s emerging quarterback. Speaking on May 28, Miller identified Nix as the “real deal” after observing his play and competing against him. Nix, selected by the Broncos with the No. 12 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, is entering his second season, carrying both his own and the fanbase’s high expectations.
I was part of that quarterback carousel, and now they got one. They got one for sure. Bo Nix, I’ve seen him play, and I’ve played against him. He’s the real deal,
Miller told reporters on May 28.
This’ll be his second year coming up. And I know he expects more, and I know Broncos Country expects more as well. I know he has more. He’s just gonna keep on growing.
—Von Miller, Former Broncos Linebacker
Broncos’ Roster Strength Draws Praise From Miller
Beyond praising Nix, Miller commended the depth and talent currently in the Denver Broncos’ squad. He specifically highlighted the strong outside linebacker group featuring Jonathon Cooper and Nik Bonitto, both of whom significantly contributed to the Broncos leading the league in sacks last season. Miller also acknowledged backups Dondrea Tillman and Jonah Elliss for their role in maintaining this pass-rushing strength.
On offense, Miller showed respect for key players such as left tackle Garett Bolles, wide receiver Courtland Sutton, and right tackle Mike McGlinchey. Defensively, he named defensive lineman Zach Allen as among the league’s elite performers. Additionally, Miller praised head coach Vance Joseph, who led the Broncos in 2017 and 2018, demonstrating continued respect for the team‘s leadership.
This Broncos team is really running off to a really good team. Still a very, very competitive division in the AFC West, going against the Chiefs and Chargers, and the Raiders. But they can compete with those guys,
Miller said.
Once they can win with those guys and make the playoffs, who knows what happens then? So, Broncos Country should be excited.
—Von Miller, Former Broncos Linebacker
He further assessed the AFC West division, acknowledging the formidable competition posed by the Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Chargers, and Las Vegas Raiders. While describing the Chargers as enhanced by a revamped running game and strong offensive tackles, Miller emphasized the Broncos’ capability to contend in this challenging environment.
[The Chargers] have a revamped run game, high-end left and right tackles and a cookie dough-soft schedule.
—Von Miller, Former Broncos Linebacker
Miller Reflects on His Return to Denver Amid the Broncos’ Growth
At 36 years old and following a four-season stint with the Buffalo Bills, Miller acknowledged the diminished likelihood of a return to Denver. He cited the Broncos’ depth in pass rushers and his own fatigue with contributing on special teams as factors reducing a potential reunion.
I haven’t heard anything. But it really, if you look at it this year, it really doesn’t make sense. They got two really, really good rushers that are best in league. Jonathon Cooper and Nik Bonitto are incredible rushers. And the guys underneath them, they come in, they produce sacks too. And they play special teams. I’m not playing special teams. That’s something I think at 36 years old, I can say that I probably wouldn’t be doing that,
said Miller.
Yeah. It’s just this year, probably not. But the year after that, next year, we’ll see what happens.
—Von Miller, Former Broncos Linebacker
Miller’s reflection comes after a period with the Bills where he appeared in 36 games over three seasons, totaling 14 sacks. His production had declined compared to his peak years with the Broncos, partly due to injuries, including an ankle injury that impacted his career trajectory. Despite this, Miller remains respected as an eight-time Pro Bowler, three-time All-Pro, and two-time Super Bowl champion.
Defensive Confidence Bolsters Broncos’ Playoff Aspirations
Several current Broncos players share optimism about the team’s future. Veteran cornerback Chris Harris Jr. has voiced confidence that Denver’s defense has no notable weaknesses heading into the upcoming season, forecasting a return to the NFL’s elite defensive rankings in 2025.
This defense really has no weaknesses going into the season.
—Chris Harris Jr., Broncos Cornerback
The defensive unit’s strength derives largely from the performances of Cooper and Bonitto, who achieved double-digit sacks last year while anchoring a versatile linebacker group. This robust defense complements Bo Nix’s development at quarterback, suggesting a balanced team poised for growth.
Looking Ahead: A Renewed Broncos Team and What It Means
The combination of a promising quarterback in Bo Nix, stalwart defenders, and experienced coaching staff positions the Denver Broncos as a competitive force within the AFC West. Von Miller’s endorsement of Nix underlines confidence in the team’s direction amid a historically volatile quarterback situation since Miller’s departure. The Broncos seek to convert their progress into consistent playoff appearances and ultimately, championship contention.
While Miller’s own playing future with Denver appears uncertain, his perspective offers encouragement to Broncos fans anticipating a more stable and formidable roster. As the 2024 season approaches, attention will focus on Bo Nix’s continued maturation and the defense’s ability to sustain top-tier performance against divisional rivals.