Jan 12, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos linebacker Von Miller (58) lines up during the first quarter of the AFC divisional round playoff game against the Baltimore Ravens at Sports Authority Field. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
Denver Broncos pass rushing specialist, Von Miller, is reportedly facing a four-game suspension for violating an NFL policy, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
From Schefter, via Twitter:
Broncos LB Von Miller is facing 4-game suspension for violating NFL policy, per ESPN sources. Case currently in appeals process.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 22, 2013
So Denver lost Elvis Dumervil to Baltimore and is now facing prospect of losing Von Miller to suspension.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 22, 2013
Yikes. That isn’t good news for Denver. Players generally appeal these things and lose and so I doubt this situation will turn out differently.
Schefter doesn’t mention what NFL policy Miller has potentially violated. The four game suspension is usually due to violating the league’s substance abuse policy, unless the player has had previous incidents of violating the personal conduct policy. I don’t recall Miller ever being in trouble for violating the personal conduct policy.
This is all just speculation, however, and we’ve yet to see a report that specifically mentions what policy Miller broke.
If Miller fails his appeal, the NFL will release info on what policy he violated. If it was the substance abuse policy, the NFL is not allowed to say what the substance was. Players usually put out that they were busted for taking the drug adderal, however that excuse is getting pretty old.
Regardless, losing Miller for four games would be a big blow to the Denver defense. He is one of the best defenders in the NFL.
We’re far enough out that the appeal process will likely be over before the seasons starts, meaning Miller would be out for the first four games of the season.
The Broncos play the following teams to start the year:
vs. Baltimore
@ NY Giants
vs. Raiders
vs. Eagles
The Broncos are good enough to take care of the Eagles and Raiders without Miller but not having him around to play the Ravens and Giants could really hurt the Broncos’ chances in those games. If Miller has his suspension reduced to two games, Denver will still be without him in those two tough contests.
What do you think, Addicts? If Miller is suspended, will it cost the Broncos any wins?