Von Miller Ready For High Profile Role In Denver

As always, the critics are out there. That’s what keeps life interesting. That’s what keeps top NFL draft picks on their toes.

For people who think the Denver Broncos should’ve taken arguably the best player in the draft in Patrick Peterson or gone with a top-notch defensive lineman in Marcell Dareus rather than linebacker Von Miller with the No. 2 overall pick, that’s just what Miller needs. He needs the doubters. He needs the people that don’t believe he can make the transition from a 3-4 linebacker in college to the 4-3 alignment in the pros.

Through those thick-rimmed glasses, Von Miller sees the doubt that surrounds him. He doesn’t have to pay attention to it, however.

"“I’m telling you, playing football there’s a lot of adversity.” – Von Miller (Denver Post)"

The Broncos newest addition acknowledges that the game is never easy, and that’s where his hard work has paid off.

In college, Miller never played the same position in consecutive years. That’s quite possibly a testimony to his ability to adapt and play where needed on the football field. That’s exactly what he will have to do in John Fox’s new 4-3 system. 

Fox and Co. don’t seem very concerned that Miller comes from the 3-4 in college because of his explosiveness in coverage and as a pass rusher.

“He was utilized primarily as a rusher,” Fox said Thursday night. “He was in coverage, but he has the speed. He’s a definite three down player, and he can also be a four down player and play on special teams.”

The versatility is what the Broncos coaching staff really likes about the linebacker.

“He can be of great value as a fifth rusher, or on third down as a fourth rusher,” Fox said.

Elvis Dumervil’s return to the field will be such an asset for the young linebacker and the rest of the Broncos defense. To have the guy that led the NFL in sacks in 2009 and then to mix in the guy that led the NCAA in sacks that same year, we’re in for a treat this season assuming these two stay healthy.

The most high profile pick is over for the Broncos, but a lot of action is yet to come. Rounds two and three are tonight with the rest of the draft being completed tomorrow night.

Stay tuned in here at PO for more draft coverage.

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