Title: Buffalo Bills’ Von Miller to Miss First Four Games of 2023 Season
Introduction:
The Buffalo Bills will be without star pass-rusher Von Miller for at least the first four games of the 2023 NFL season. Miller, who suffered a right ACL injury during a game against the Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving, will remain on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list until the team’s deadline on Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET. This means he will miss crucial matchups against the New York Jets, Las Vegas Raiders, Washington Commanders, and Miami Dolphins. Let’s delve into the details of Miller’s injury, his impact on the team, and the Bills’ plans in his absence.
Miller’s Injury and Recovery:
Miller injured his right ACL during the 2022 season, and initial hopes were that he would return before the regular season or postseason. However, exploratory surgery in December revealed the extent of the injury, leading to a longer recovery process. Despite the setback, Miller has remained optimistic and has set his sights on returning for the Bills’ Monday Night Football season opener against the Jets on September 11th.
Miller’s Impact on the Bills:
Since joining the Bills in 2022 on a six-year, $120 million contract, Miller has been a key contributor to the team’s defense. Despite playing in only 11 games last season, he finished tied for the team lead in sacks (eight) alongside Greg Rousseau. Miller also led the team in pressures, pass rush win rate, and pressure percentage. His absence will undoubtedly be felt on the field, but the Bills have made moves to bolster their pass-rush unit.
Bills’ Plan in Miller’s Absence:
To compensate for Miller’s absence, the Bills acquired veteran pass-rusher Leonard Floyd during the offseason. Additionally, they traded Boogie Basham, one of their young pass-rushers, to the New York Giants. The team will now rely on the talents of Floyd, Rousseau, and A.J. Epenesa to fill the void left by Miller. While these players have shown promise, Miller’s experience and skill set will be difficult to replace entirely.
Miller’s Optimism and Return Timeline:
Despite the setback, Miller has maintained a positive outlook and remains determined to return to the field as soon as possible. He has been actively involved with the team throughout training camp, participating in workouts on the sidelines. Miller’s previous experience with a torn ACL in 2013, which he recovered from in time for the 2014 season, gives him confidence in his ability to make a successful comeback.
Conclusion:
The Buffalo Bills will be without Von Miller for the first four games of the 2023 NFL season due to a right ACL injury. Miller’s absence will undoubtedly impact the team’s defense, as he has been a key contributor since joining the Bills in 2022. However, the team has made moves to strengthen their pass-rush unit, acquiring Leonard Floyd and relying on young talents like Greg Rousseau and A.J. Epenesa. Miller remains optimistic about his return and aims to be back for the Monday Night Football season opener against the New York Jets. As fans eagerly await his comeback, the Bills will need to adapt and find ways to succeed without their star pass-rusher.