Von Miller Joins Commanders: What Does This Mean for Washington’s Defense?

By Jason Bolton July 18, 2025 10:16

The Washington Commanders shook up their offseason by signing veteran edge rusher Von Miller to a one-year deal, seeking to bolster a defense that made a deep playoff run last season but still lacked a consistent pass-rush finisher. Miller, 36, announced the move himself on Instagram with the caption, “DC… What’s good??” marking a new chapter for both the two-time Super Bowl champion and the Commanders.

Miller’s arrival in Washington follows his release from the Buffalo Bills in March, a salary cap-driven decision after the Bills signed him to a massive six-year, $120 million contract in 2022 that did not pan out due to injuries and a dip in production. Last season, Miller recorded 6 sacks and 17 total tackles, a noticeable decline from his prime years but still showing flashes of the player who ranks 16th all-time with 129.5 career sacks.

The Commanders, coming off a 12-5 season and an appearance in the NFC Championship, addressed a key defensive need by adding Miller, who fills the void left by Dante Fowler Jr., their top pass rusher with 10.5 sacks last year before departing for the Cowboys. Washington’s defensive front had depth but lacked a reliable edge presence to close out crucial plays. Miller is expected to be that closer, a designated pass rusher who can immediately contribute situationally on passing downs.

Defensive coordinator Marcus Flynn emphasized Miller’s role:

“Von will be our specialist pass rusher he’s not playing every snap but when it’s time to bring pressure, he’s our go-to guy.”

Despite his age and recent injury history, Miller remains in excellent shape and brings invaluable experience to a relatively young defense. NFL analyst Brian Baldinger reflected:

“At 36, most players wouldn’t get this kind of shot, but Von’s proven pedigree, leadership, and still-effective pass rush moves make him an excellent low-risk, high-upside addition.”

Miller’s proven ability to perform on big stages earning Super Bowl 50 MVP honors with Denver and winning a second ring with the Rams also offers intangibles that Washington’s locker room values. His presence is not just about sacks; it’s leadership, mentorship for emerging pass rushers, and savvy game intelligence.

Statistically, Miller is projected to play a role similar to Fowler’s last year, focusing on pressure rate over run defense snaps. Last season, Miller spent 77% of his snaps rushing the passer and maintained a strong Pro Football Focus grade of 85.5 despite not replicating peak sack numbers. Washington’s coaching staff will look to maximize those pass-rush reps in obvious passing situations and crucial down-and-distance moments.

Washington General Manager Joe Hortiz summed up the acquisition’s importance:

“Signing Von is about elevating our defense in critical moments. His experience and skills will help us both on the field and in the locker room as we push for a Super Bowl.”

In a division featuring high-powered offenses, the Commanders’ improvement on the edge rush could be pivotal. Miller’s ability to collapse pockets and disrupt quarterbacks will complement interior defensive linemen like Deatrich Wise and Javon Kinlaw, creating a more dynamic front that can pressure offenses consistently.

Von Miller’s signing represents a calculated gamble by the Commanders a veteran nearing the twilight of his career but still capable of game-changing plays. For Washington, Miller is not just a name; he is a key piece in their quest to build a championship-caliber defense capable of overcoming the NFL’s elite offenses in 2025 and beyond.