Nik Bonitto, an All-Pro rush linebacker for the Denver Broncos, has weighed in on the ongoing rumors surrounding his former teammate, Von Miller. Miller, a free agent and former Super Bowl MVP, has expressed his desire to reunite with the Broncos, a sentiment shared by the team's fans. However, the team's current depth at outside linebacker and the likelihood of Miller's willingness to play special teams have cast doubt on the possibility of a reunion.
Bonitto, who was drafted by the Broncos in 2022, has a unique connection to Miller. He was acquired by the team in a trade with the Los Angeles Rams, and his draft pick was used to select Bonitto. This trade, which occurred in 2021, marked a significant turning point for the Broncos, as it heralded the beginning of Bonitto's era as an elite pass rusher.
The idea of bringing back Miller, who is 37 years old, raises intriguing questions. While Miller's age might be a concern, his ability to produce nine sacks last season in Washington cannot be ignored. This performance could be a compelling reason for the Broncos to consider a reunion, especially given their current Super Bowl aspirations.
Bonitto, in his own right, is a rising star in the NFL. He has been studying the techniques of top pass rushers like Myles Garrett, Micah Parsons, and Trey Hendrickson, among others. This dedication to improving his game further solidifies the Broncos' confidence in their outside linebacker depth.
The Broncos' recent moves, such as moving Jonah Elliss to inside linebacker and Drew Sanders to the rush linebacker room, further support the idea that they are building a strong foundation for the future. Bonitto's praise for Sanders, calling him the most versatile player in football, highlights the team's commitment to developing young talent.
In conclusion, while the cons of reuniting with Miller might outweigh the pros, the Broncos' current position in the Super Bowl window and Miller's proven track record make it a tempting prospect. The team's focus on building a strong foundation for the future, combined with Bonitto's dedication to his craft, suggests that the Broncos are well-positioned to make a run at the championship, whether with or without Miller.