John Kame, an ESPN reporter covering the Washington Commanders, shared that edge rusher Miller has signed a cost-effective one-year contract with the team worth $6.1 million, with the potential to earn up to $10.5 million through incentives. Miller agreed to the deal on Wednesday and is set to officially sign at the team’s facility on Monday. Veterans of the Commanders will begin reporting for training camp on Tuesday, with their first practice scheduled for the next day.
At 36 years old, Miller is expected to play a key role as a pass-rushing specialist for Washington. He joins the team after tallying 129.5 career sacks, including his last season with the Buffalo Bills. Last season, Washington ranked 11th in the NFL for total sacks with 43 but struggled in the fourth quarter, recording only five sacks during that crucial period. This contributed to opposing quarterbacks achieving a QBR of 74.8 in the final quarter, a notable weakness.
In the offseason, the Commanders invested in bolstering their defensive line by acquiring defensive ends and tackles like Javon Kinlaw, Eddie Goldman, Deatrich Wise Jr., and Jacob Martin. Their focus was on improving their run defense, which ranked 30th last season, as well as enhancing their pass rush, after failing to attract top veterans like Demarcus Lawrence and Joey Bosa in free agency. The NFL Network was the first to reveal the financial details of Miller’s contract.
Fan Take: This signing highlights Washington’s strategic approach to strengthening their pass rush without overspending, which is crucial for competing in a league where defensive pressure wins games. For NFL fans, Miller’s addition could signal a more competitive and dynamic defense for the Commanders this season, impacting their ability to close out games effectively.