The Los Angeles Rams were one of the most aggressive teams at the NFL trade deadline last season, sending a 2022 second-round and third-round draft pick to the Denver Broncos for star pass rusher Von Miller.
The future Hall of Famer played an instrumental role in helping the team win Super Bowl LVI and was a natural fit next to Aaron Donald on the defensive line.
While there was mutual interest in a reunion, Miller ultimately signed a six-year, $120 million contract with the Buffalo Bills. The eight-time Pro Bowler said it was hard to walk away from the Rams, but couldn’t resist passing up the opportunity to join another team that is on the rise.
According to Dan Pompei of The Athletic, Miller turned down more money from the Rams for a third guaranteed year with the Bills:
The Rams had a deal on the table that would have paid more per year on a three-year contract but with only two years guaranteed instead. At Miller’s age, that extra year guaranteed by the Bills meant something. He couldn’t turn it down.
He planned to call or text each of his Rams teammates to tell them he was leaving, which he knew would be difficult. The conversation with McVay was heavy and hard. He talked with Donald, Jalen Ramsey and Odell Beckham Jr. “Bro, you can still come back,” Beckham told him. “We’re family. You good.”
Given that he is approaching the latter stages of his career, it makes sense for Miller to choose the security in a third guaranteed year over more money.
After deciding to sign with the Bills, Miller first called Rams head coach Sean McVay to share the news, telling him it was one of the most difficult choices of his life.
Even without Miller in the picture, the Rams’ defense still projects to be strong next season. Donald of course will be returning after contemplating retirement, and the team signed longtime Seattle Seahawks inside linebacker Bobby Wagner.
