VON MILLER: A recent article from the Denver Post’s Mark Kizla made a case against Von Miller being dubbed a leader of the Denver Broncos. Obviously, Denver has a Qb problem meaning they simply don’t have a starting caliber guy on the roster, but does that mean the idea of building around a Von Miller and expecting him to lead is wrong? I can see why you might say that, but when the Broncos won a SuperBowl; it was thanks in large part to Von Miller. One of the most iconic memories in Broncos lore is the Von strip of Cam Newton and his late pick against Tom Brady all but sealed the Patriots fate. He went on a hall of fame run in those playoffs; 5 sacks, 11 tackles, 1 interception and a few fumbles forced on top of just being a threat to hit the QB nearly every down. I get it, that was two years ago and the Broncos have missed the playoffs every year since. But without an offense that can convert on 3rd down once in a while, score a little and stay turnover free, one can’t expect anyone on that defense to single handily lead this team to big playoff games. That being said, I don’t think we can simply say a Cousins, Mayfield or player to be named later can jump in and be THE GUY overnight. This team is still known for its Defense and Von Miller is the face of that. He’s charismatic, funny, and one hell of a pass rusher. Sure seems like a leader to me. No, he’s not Manning, but who is? I think expecting any player to lead like #18 is foolish and unrealistic. The Jets game and the Colts game this season showed Denver fans what even an average offense can add to this stellar D. Improve the run game, find a low risk QB and watch this team get back to the playoffs led by #58, Von Miller. He had 10 sacks in 2017; that was through double teams, smart game plans and playing from behind much more often than not. A pass rusher is only as good as the position he is put in. Same can be said for a QB, an oline or a solid WR. Bottom line, Denver’s offense put a great Defense in bad situation after bad situation. That hurts Talib, Harris, Stewart and of course, the Vonster. I don’t think the Broncos need to dismiss the idea that Miller is a leader, I think they just need a QB that can simply keep them out of bad spots. I love Josh Allen, but maybe Alex Smith makes more sense??
