The Denver Broncos are making a push to re-sign Super Bowl 50 MVP linebacker Von Miller to a long-term contract extension, and there is optimism the deal will get done, according to NFL Reporter Ian Rapoport.
Reports surfaced the day of the Super Bowl that Miller would receive the franchise tag this offseason, as he wants to be the highest paid defensive player in football. Dolphins' defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh is currently the highest paid defensive player, but it has created issues in Miami as the team is looking to restructure his contract to re-sign free agents.
The Broncos' linebacker would likely be considered the top free agent in the NFL if he were to hit the market, but it seems highly unlikely that Denver's front office would even let him test the market. If the Broncos are able to strike a deal with Miller prior to the free agency period, it reportedly "opens up all options" for quarterback Brock Osweiler.
The Broncos have been adamant about wanting both Miller and Osweiler back next season and could look to have them both signed before the March 1 franchise tag and transition tag deadline. Miller is arguably one of the best defensive players in the league after five seasons in the NFL and is coming off his fourth season with double-digit sacks, recording 11 sacks and four forced fumbles in 2015.
The Broncos' pass rusher created havoc for opposing offenses in the postseason and recorded five sacks, two forced fumbles and an interception in the AFC Championship and Super Bowl. While the Broncos are unlikely to let Miller test free agency, they are also looking to retain Osweiler. Denver used a second round pick on Osweiler in the 2012 NFL Draft, and he saw significant time behind center recording a 5-2 record as the Broncos' starter this past season.
The Broncos are not rushing quarterback Peyton Manning to make a decision regarding retirement but have a plan in place. It's unknown what the two-time Super Bowl-winning quarterback will decide, but Denver's front office isn't taking any risks as it looks to lock up two key pieces in Miller and Osweiler this offseason.