Legendary Pass Rusher Von Miller Shines in Week 18 Finale.
Buffalo Bills linebacker Von Miller brought out the best in himself to end the regular season and with the stinging, he also earns some serious cash as the handsome $ 1.5 million bonus he received. In a league, where each play seems so crucial as it is, Miller was a man that jogged everyone’s memory of him being one among the greatest.
The now 35-year-old pass rusher was aware as he headed into Week 18 that several quantifiable reward clauses within his contract were close to kicking in. If he was to achieve six sacks a year, then his possible bonuses could have been reaching up to $3.5 million but he bagged $1.5 million compensation when he sacked the New England Patriots quarterback during the game.
When matched up against Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye in the final game of the season, Miller didn’t take long to make his mark. This was truly demonstrated on New England’s first offense possession of the ball when Miller recorded a mouth watering sack, yet another feather to his cap. Even as the Bills lost 23-16 to the Jaguars, Miller demonstrated that he has plenty left in the tank as the Buffalo prepares itself for the play-offs.
A Veteran with More to Consider
Some people may have thought that Miller was not long-winded for a pitcher his age and knocked down all those controversies with his gameplay. Even his head coach, Sean McDermott, admitted that it was a major plus to have Miller around. ‘It was good to get him out there and ready for what’s to come next week,’ said McDermott.
He carries 128.5 career sacks to his kitty and this ranks him at 16th position in the NFL’s record books making him a premium player of the league. His leadership and experience will be crucial when the bills play in the playoffs against his former team the Denver Broncos which will be an emotional thing for the man who has played in 8 Pro Bowls and was named Super Bowl MVP.
NFL’s Week 18: A Showcase of Milestones
It wasn’t just Von Miller who came into week 18 looking to set new records. In the league, players were focused on achieving targets agreed with their teams and etched into their contracts such as sacking targets and receiving over 1000 yards. These episodes are only noted to reveal the spirit of rivalry among the players and at the same time create more buzz for the fans of the leagues watching the final fixtures of the season.
It’s not just about the money for Miller it is about showing everyone out there that he still has it in him to be one of the best players out there. His performance on Sunday sent a clear message to the league: As young as 35, Von Miller can still bring down any quarterback, which makes Denver Broncos fortunate to have him on their team.
With Buffalo now focusing on winning games in the playoffs, having Miller inside the organization with passion and history of coming threw for touchdowns in the clutch moments maybe what Bills need to make that Super Bowl run. For now though, he will be able to take the sweet taste of victory and that respective bonus in his pocket.
