DECLINE: Broncos Legend Von Miller Rejects $7.5M NFL Offer from Texas to Stay in Denver — “I Have No Plans Beyond Being a Denver Broncos Champion”
April 22, 2025 | Denver, CO
In an era where loyalty is often overshadowed by contracts, endorsements, and late-career team switches, Vonnie B’VSean Miller, known to the football world simply as Von Miller, has made a statement that resonates far beyond the NFL gridiron. The future Hall of Famer and beloved Denver Broncos linebacker has declined a $7.5 million contract offer from an NFL team in Texas, choosing instead to remain with the only franchise he’s ever called home: the Denver Broncos.
Miller’s decision, officially announced in a press conference on Monday afternoon at the Broncos’ headquarters in Dove Valley, wasn’t about money or proximity to his Texas roots. It was about legacy, loyalty, and love for a city and franchise that raised him into a football icon.
“I’ve made my name here. I’ve made my career here. I’ve made a life here. I have no plans beyond being a Denver Broncos champion,” said Miller, his voice filled with both confidence and conviction. “This is home.”
The Offer That Turned Heads
The deal in question, believed to have come from a team based in Texas—though Miller and the Broncos declined to name the franchise—was reportedly a one-year, $7.5 million contract with full guarantees and performance-based incentives that could have made the deal worth up to $9.5 million.
Sources close to the negotiation say the offer was compelling, particularly for a 35-year-old pass rusher whose role has naturally diminished with age and injury. The opportunity to finish his career in his home state, near family and friends, while contributing to a team likely in playoff contention, would have made sense on paper.
But Miller’s decision wasn’t driven by paper. It was personal.
“I’m not chasing a farewell tour,” he said. “I’m chasing one more championship in orange and blue.”
A Bond Forged in Mile High Moments
Von Miller’s story with the Denver Broncos began in 2011, when he was selected second overall in the NFL Draft out of Texas A&M. Since then, he has become not just one of the greatest pass rushers in NFL history, but also the face of a franchise and a symbol of perseverance.
In 2015, he was the Super Bowl 50 MVP, delivering a dominant performance against Cam Newton and the Carolina Panthers, recording 2.5 sacks and two forced fumbles. That win cemented his status as a Broncos legend and helped bring Denver its third Lombardi Trophy.
Now in his 14th season, Miller holds the franchise record for career sacks (115.5) and ranks among the NFL’s all-time leaders. Despite battling multiple injuries in recent seasons and spending part of 2021 and 2022 with the Los Angeles Rams—winning another Super Bowl along the way—Miller returned to Denver in 2023 with a renewed sense of purpose.
“I’ve played in L.A. I’ve won another ring. But nothing compares to winning in Denver,” he said. “That’s where my heart is.”
The Message: Loyalty Still Matters
In choosing to decline the Texas offer, Miller sends a powerful message in a league that often prioritizes contracts over continuity. He isn’t just staying in Denver—he’s doubling down on a legacy few players ever achieve with one team.
“I want younger players to know that it’s okay to stay. It’s okay to build something in one place. That matters,” Miller said during his emotional announcement.
The reaction from teammates, fans, and the broader NFL community was immediate and overwhelming. Social media lit up with tributes, memes, and video compilations celebrating Miller’s decision.
Teammate Patrick Surtain II, who recently signed a record-breaking extension himself, tweeted:
“Loyalty. Leadership. Legacy. That’s Von Miller. We ride together, we win together.”
Behind the Decision: A Championship Mentality
Sources inside the Broncos facility say that Miller’s decision was not only based on emotion, but also on football. With the recent moves made by General Manager George Paton—including bolstering the offensive line, re-signing key defensive pieces, and drafting impact rookies—the Broncos appear poised for a resurgence.
Miller reportedly believes that Denver can contend for a playoff berth—and more—as soon as this season.
“People talk like I’m retiring. I’m not. I feel great, I’ve been working, and I’m ready to ball,” Miller told reporters. “This team has something special brewing. And I want to be part of it.”
Head coach [Insert Name] echoed Miller’s passion, saying:
“Having Von in the locker room changes everything. His experience, his leadership—it’s irreplaceable. He’s not just a player, he’s a culture builder.”
The Contract Details and Future Outlook
Although the details of his new agreement with the Broncos have not been officially disclosed, league sources suggest Miller agreed to a veteran-minimum deal, worth roughly $1.3 million with bonuses tied to performance, playoff appearances, and mentorship contributions.
More importantly, insiders say the Broncos front office has been working closely with Miller on potential post-retirement opportunities, possibly including a future role in player development, front-office consulting, or even coaching.
“Von’s future in Denver doesn’t end when he hangs up his cleats,” GM Paton said. “We’re already thinking about what he can bring to this organization in the next chapter.”
Fan Reaction: “He’s Ours Forever”
Perhaps the most heartwarming part of the announcement was the fan reaction. Within hours, murals of Miller began appearing across downtown Denver. Local businesses put up “Thank You Von” signs. And on social media, the hashtag #ForeverBronco trended for nearly 24 hours.
Longtime fan Jeremy Dalton, wearing a worn-out Von Miller jersey from 2015, said outside Empower Field at Mile High:
“He could’ve taken the money. He could’ve left. But he didn’t. That’s loyalty you don’t see anymore. He’s ours forever.”
Conclusion: A Legend Who Chose Legacy Over Luxury
In a league where players often become journeymen by the end of their careers, Von Miller’s decision to stay in Denver is a throwback to an earlier era—one where greatness was measured not only in rings or dollars, but in loyalty and impact.
He could have chased the money. He could have followed the sunshine or the spotlight. Instead, he chose to remain where his heart always was—in the Mile High City, where No. 58 will one day hang in the rafters.
“There’s nothing left for me to prove,” Miller said. “But there’s still something left for me to give. And I’m going to give it right here in Denver.”
Von Miller declined $7.5 million to stay home. Not just in Denver, but in the hearts of every fan who ever watched him chase down a quarterback. He’s not done yet—and Broncos Country couldn’t be prouder.
