Von Miller is heading to the nation’s capital. After months of speculation about his future, the eight-time Pro Bowl linebacker is finalizing a one-year contract with the Washington Commanders.
This news sparked a significant reaction across the NFL, including from former Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant, who shared his thoughts on Miller joining Washington’s defense.
How Will Von Miller Impact the Commanders’ Defense?
Miller, 36, confirmed the move on June 16 via Instagram, posting a photo of himself in a Commanders uniform with the caption “DC… What’s good??” The veteran pass rusher spent the last three seasons with the Buffalo Bills, recording six sacks and 17 tackles during the 2024 campaign.
View this post on Instagram
The Commanders are looking to build on a strong 2024 season that saw the team reach the NFC Championship Game for the first time in three decades. Miller joins a revamped defensive line that includes free agent additions Javon Kinlaw, Deatrich Wise, and Jacob Martin.
Washington hopes Miller can provide leadership and situational pass-rushing help as they aim for a deeper playoff run. Despite facing injuries in recent years, Miller remains the NFL’s active leader in career sacks with 129.5 and brings invaluable championship experience from his Super Bowl wins with the Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Rams.
What Did Dez Bryant Say About Miller’s Signing?
Miller’s production has fallen off in recent years, failing to produce double-digit sacks in any season since 2018. That hasn’t stopped Bryant from praising the signing on X, saying the upcoming season will be an “All-Pro year” for the veteran pass rusher.
Responding to a comment that Miller was a “ring chaser,” Bryant defended the move, stating, “It makes perfect sense for him to sign with the Commanders, especially where he’s at in his career. I love the move! DQ and Von… ”
It makes perfect sense for him to sign with the commanders especially where he’s at in his career.. I love the move! DQ and Von…
All pro.. pro bowl year for Von! https://t.co/cY7X4KKYzx
— Dez Bryant (@DezBryant) July 17, 2025
He added, “All pro.. pro bowl year for Von!”
Miller’s arrival in Washington gives head coach Dan Quinn a versatile weapon for a defense already stacked with veteran talent. Known for his creative schemes and ability to maximize edge rushers, Quinn will likely use Miller in a specialized role focused on third-down and late-game situations.
Rather than expecting Miller to play every snap, the Commanders will lean on his experience and explosiveness to generate pressure in key moments. With Miller joining a front seven that includes Bobby Wagner and Daron Payne, Quinn has the pieces to build a unit capable of disrupting quarterbacks without relying heavily on blitzes.
Bryant and Quinn briefly crossed paths in Dallas when Quinn served as the Cowboys’ defensive coordinator from 2021 to 2023. Although Bryant’s playing career with the team ended in 2017, he was close enough to the organization to be excited about how Miller fits into Quinn’s defensive scheme.
