It was in the spring of 2022 when the Dallas Cowboys took a legitimate big-money swing at one of the most sought-after free agents in the league.
Von Miller wanted to come home.
Jerry Jones’ Cowboys made him a legit offer, putting on the table for the DeSoto, Texas, native the same offer that Randy Gregory had just (foolishly) walked away from.
“I told them I was ready to come to the Cowboys,” Miller later said. “I would have taken less to go to Dallas because it’s Dallas. But I wouldn’t take that much less.”
Miller eventually signed with the Buffalo Bills for six years, $120 million.
That’s a $20 million average … while the Cowoys’ offer of five years and $70 million offer averaged $14 million.
So Miller, the former Texas A&M star and Super Bowl MVP, 33, shuffled off to Buffalo.
But now, three years later?
At 35 years old, Miller hasn’t recorded over 10 sacks in a season over the last six seasons and has battled injuries and off-field issues over the last three. Since signing that record-setting deal with the Bills three years ago, Miller has recorded just 14 sacks.
That doesn’t mean he can’t be an effective player, though. … maybe coming off the bench as a rotational piece in the Micah Parsons-led defense?
Should Dallas try again here … as Miller tries to find a way to one more Super Bowl appearance? Interestingly, we think that Dallas’ competition here might be NFC East-heavy, as our Nick Faria is suggesting four other top landing spots for Miller …
1. Philadelphia Eagles The Eagles are about to lose Josh Sweat and Milton Williams in free agency and that could leave the defending champs looking for a veteran presence – especially if Brandon Graham retires.
2. Washington Commanders The Commanders are finally competitive again and they are trying to build off of a historically great first season under Dan Quinn and Jayden Daniels. The team is desperate for defensive line help, though, and Miller could certainly provide that.
3. Baltimore Ravens The Ravens seem like a fine destination for Miller for a number of reasons. Getting a veteran to come in who can simply sack the quarterback, though, is the biggest reason why this would work for both sides.
And finally …
4. Dallas Cowboys Miller was actually pretty effective last year as a spot player, recording six regular-season sacks while ranking 18th on the Bills defense in snaps.
That’s not worth $20 million per year anymore. It’s not worth $14 million per year, either.
But Miller and the Cowboys taking one more crack at an affordable partnership? That’s worth a re-examination.
