At 36 years old, Von Miller faces the challenges of declining production and limited playing time, yet the Washington Commanders remain optimistic about their recent signing of the veteran edge rusher. The team’s faith is bolstered by compelling data spotlighted by Jared Dubin of CBS Sports, which shows that veteran pass rushers aged 35 and older often surpass expectations on the field.
Data reveals encouraging trends among veteran pass rushers
Using TruMedia data, Dubin analyzed the performance of designated veteran pass rushers, those 35 years or older at the start of the season. His findings highlight that players in this group commonly deliver notable production despite their age, a positive sign for the Commanders after signing Miller to a one-year deal. Although Miller’s recent numbers are modest—tallying just six sacks over the past two seasons—history indicates that such veterans can still be impactful.
Dubin pointed out several legendary pass rushers who achieved impressive longevity, including Dwight Freeney, Julius Peppers, and Cameron Wake. These elite players averaged 424.8 snaps, 6.2 tackles for loss, 4.6 sacks, 10.4 hits, and 20.6 hurries per season, combining for 31.2 pressures on average. Their sustained production into their later years offers an encouraging blueprint for what Miller might contribute in Washington.
Contextualizing veteran pass rusher performance with survivorship bias
Despite the positive outlook, Dubin also addressed the role of survivorship bias in evaluating older pass rushers. Typically, only those who performed well throughout their careers remain active past 35, so continued productivity is expected to some degree. However, many veteran edge rushers still face steep declines late in their careers, as illustrated by five out of 22 players managing fewer than 250 snaps due to injury or decreased effectiveness.
Consistently earning playing time at an advanced age reflects strong durability and professionalism. Miller’s recent career has shown some inconsistency; he recorded six sacks and 32 pressures over 13 games last season but failed to register a sack and only notched 13 pressures in 2023. This uneven performance highlights the challenge of maintaining peak impact as age advances.
Miller’s experience and technique remain valuable assets for Washington
Despite recent highs and lows, Miller’s pedigree includes two Super Bowl titles—one with the Denver Broncos and another with the Los Angeles Rams—bringing proven championship experience to the Commanders. His ability to combine speed and power, paired with techniques such as rip-and-dip moves, is exactly what Washington hopes will revitalize its defensive pass rush.
The last sacks Miller recorded while with the Buffalo Bills showcase his enduring explosiveness, a trait the Commanders want to leverage this season. As training camps progress, the team’s confidence in his veteran insight grows, hoping his savvy and leadership translate into more pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Building a foundation for improved defensive performance
The Commanders are betting that Miller’s blend of experience and skill will push their defense beyond expectations this season. While age and recent performance raise questions, Miller’s past success and the encouraging trends highlighted by the data suggest he could still provide a meaningful impact. Washington’s strategy to integrate his veteran pass rush expertise signals a commitment to strengthening their front and disrupting opposing offenses as the season unfolds.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Von Miller wear glasses?
A. Miller mentioned he began using glasses in second grade and has experienced vision issues throughout his life.
Q. Did Von Miller have surgery?
A. Doctors first believed the injury was not serious and would heal in a few weeks. However, in December 2022, Von had surgery to fix a partially torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the same knee where he had an ACL tear in the 2013 NFL season.
Q. What surgery did Von Miller have?
A. In December last year, Von Miller had exploratory surgery in Dallas, Texas. The procedure aimed to fix his meniscus and tidy up his ligament. During the surgery, specialists found ACL damage that the earlier MRI scans did not show, which ended his season.
Q. What exactly did Von Miller do to get suspended?
A. On November 30, Miller voluntarily went to the police in Glenn Heights, Texas. He faced an arrest warrant for third-degree felony assault charges. The accusations involved his pregnant girlfriend and took place during the Bills’ break week in 2023, near Dallas.