Denver Broncos: Von Miller gave ‘serious consideration’ to opting out
The Denver Broncos would have been left with a major hole if outside linebacker Von Miller decided to opt-out of the 2020 season.
In April, Denver Broncos star Von Miller tested positive for coronavirus (COVID). The NFL has given players the option to opt-out of the 2020 season due to health concerns.
Miller said on Tuesday that he thought about taking that opportunity and forgoing his 10th season in the league.
Von said he gave "serious consideration" to opting out, but cites #Broncos safety measures as reasons to play. "And last year, I didn't play to my standard. There was more for me to give."
— Ryan O'Halloran (@ryanohalloran) August 4, 2020
Miller also said that he did not play up to his standard during the 2019 season. With a new head coach and the absence of Bradley Chubb for most of the season, Miller finished the year with eight sacks.
But as somebody who had already had the virus, Miller comes away with first-hand experience and it would not have been shocking if he decided to sit out.
Sad and disappointing for football fans? Yes. Surprising? No.
The health and safety of everybody is the most important thing. The progression of football activities is secondary. If Miller had opted out, it would have been sad because we would not have gotten to see him this upcoming season, but we should stand beside the players who make the decision to sit out.
Despite the uncertainties about what will happen going forward (whether or not there will be a full NFL season, etc), Miller is happy with the measures the team has taken towards making the facility a safe place.
Von -- "The #Broncos have put us in a great situation. They've done everything they can possibly do to keep us safe."
— Ryan O'Halloran (@ryanohalloran) August 4, 2020
The Broncos added a type of sanitizer machine that the players and staff have to walk through before heading onto the practice field.
Along with Miller, safety Kareem Jackson also previously had the virus. The Broncos also have two players in nose tackle Kyle Peko and offensive tackle Ja’Wuan James who chose to opt out of the 2020 season.
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The deadline for players to opt-out of the 2020 season has been set to this Thursday at 4 PM Eastern.