Von Miller picked a good time to have a great game in Super Bowl 50. The defensive star won the MVP award as he enters the offseason looking for a new contract. Miller put on a pass-rushing clinic in the Super Bowl which only upped his value heading into free agency. The Broncos cannot afford to let Miller walk away, but with contract talks stalling, could another team make a move?
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, talks between Miller and the Broncos for a long-term contract have stalled out. Naturally, Miller wants to be one of the highest paid defensive players in the league. The Broncos cannot afford that when they have a number of players set to hit the market including potential starting quarterback Brock Osweiler. As a result, Schefter reports a franchise tag will be the likely outcome for Miller this offseason.
Could another team potentially try to make a run at the defensive star. According to Vaughn McClure of ESPN.com, the Atlanta Falcons could like to get ahold of Miller this offseason, but if their only option is to give up two first-round draft picks in order to sign him, then do not expect a deal to be reached. Yes, head coach Dan Quinn wants a pass rusher this offseason. Yes, he would love to get Miller as that player. No, the Denver Broncos will not let it happen.
Instead, the Falcons could try to chase Bruce Irvin with a deal. Irvin told the Seattle Times that he would be willing to take less money in order to return to the Seattle Seahawks in free agency. However, if the Falcons came with a great deal, would he say no? According to the Atlanta Journal Constitution, the Falcons will test the waters for Irvin and see what he is asking for. Quinn could prioritize a move if it seems like a viable option. If Irvin is out, Quinn will look to the NFL Draft for help
"We certainly want to find ways to see our speed and tackling at linebacker (improve)," Quinn said, via ESPN.com. "I haven't dug in all the way with the group, but I have a real clear vision of what I'm looking for. It's the space tackling. In college football right now, there are so many spread offenses. So space and tackling, that's where so much of the game is."
According to ESPN's Todd McShay, there are a lot of options for the Falcons to explore. Shaq Lawson is seeing his draft stock rise. Reggie Ragland was a star at the Senior Bowl. Myles Jack was impressive prior to an injury. The team will have plenty of options should free agency not present much.