The Washington Commanders have taken a decisive step toward their Super Bowl ambitions by signing veteran pass rusher Von Miller. This significant acquisition underscores the team’s dedication to winning a championship. To create a spot for Miller, the Commanders released running back Michael Wiley, signaling a clear shift in their roster strategy.
Michael Wiley’s Time with Washington and College Achievements
Michael Wiley, a 24-year-old running back, entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2024 after playing five seasons at Arizona. Despite going undrafted, Wiley joined the Commanders’ practice squad during his rookie year. After Washington’s loss in the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/nfc/”>NFC Championship Game, Wiley secured a futures contract in hopes of further growth with the team.
During his collegiate career with the Arizona Wildcats, Wiley demonstrated versatility and promise. His standout season came in 2022, when he recorded 771 rushing yards, 349 receiving yards, and scored 11 total touchdowns. Alongside his rushing ability, Wiley also proved effective as a receiver in his final college season, tallying 28 receptions for 306 yards and five touchdowns while rushing for 311 yards.
Looking Forward: Wiley’s Next Opportunity in the NFL
With the Commanders committing to Miller, Michael Wiley must now pursue a new team to continue his NFL career. Standing 5-foot-11 and weighing 207 pounds, Wiley offers the skill set of a reliable pass-catching running back that may attract interest across the league. Though his time with Washington has ended, his potential to make an impact remains strong if given the right opportunity elsewhere.
As Wiley enters this new phase, he aims to secure a role where he can contribute meaningfully and develop further. The fast-evolving nature of the NFL means that with the proper fit, Wiley could establish himself as a valuable player on another roster.
Additional NFL Developments and Team Situations
While the Commanders prepare for a championship run with Von Miller, other NFL teams face their own challenges and storylines. The Cleveland Browns are closely watching their rookie quarterback, Shedeur Sanders, as he navigates early career hurdles. Training camps around the league bring intense scrutiny and unexpected developments, including concerns over the health of Kansas City Chiefs’ standout tight end Travis Kelce.
As the offseason continues, roster moves and strategic decisions are shaping the league’s landscape, promising an exciting season ahead filled with competition and new opportunities for players and teams alike.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Von Miller wear glasses?
A. Miller mentioned that he began using glasses in second grade and has always experienced issues with his eyesight.
Q. Did Von Miller have surgery?
A. Doctors first believed it was a small injury that would heal in a few weeks. However, Von needed surgery in December 2022 for a partially torn ACL in the same knee where he had an ACL tear back in the 2013 NFL season.
Q. What surgery did Von Miller have?
A. Last December, Von Miller had exploratory surgery in Dallas, Texas to fix his meniscus and clean his ligament. During this procedure, doctors found ACL damage that earlier MRI scans had missed, which led to the end of his season.
Q. What did Von Miller have surgery on?
A. The Bills announced on Wednesday that Miller’s season has ended. He had surgery in Texas to fix a “mostly to fully torn” ACL. General Manager Brandon Beane stated it was a complete ACL repair. He is hopeful that Miller will be able to play in 2023.