Von Miller, the superstar defensive end, considered his long-term aspirations when he signed a major contract with the Buffalo Bills in the 2022 offseason. Known for his interest in becoming an NFL general manager, Miller joined the Bills partly to gain insights from their GM, Brandon Beane, who has supported him in his career ambitions over the years.
Since joining Buffalo, Miller has tried to showcase his ability to build a team, even going so far as to pursue former All-Pro wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr., though that effort ultimately did not lead to a signing. In 2023, he again attempted to act in a GM capacity by attempting to lure star wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins to Buffalo, but despite some misleading posts on Instagram, Hopkins signed with the Tennessee Titans. Although Miller’s attempts to recruit players haven’t been fruitful, Beane has had more success. He is proactive in enhancing the team and recently traded for seven-time 1,000-yard receiver Amari Cooper from the Cleveland Browns after the Bills’ receiving corps had a disappointing performance, highlighted by a Week 5 game with just four catches collectively.
While Miller was serving a four-game suspension at the time of the trade and hasn’t yet played with Cooper, he is eager to do so now that he’s back on the field. During a media session, he expressed his excitement about adding Cooper to the team, acknowledging Beane’s superior skills in player acquisition.
“I was excited,” Miller remarked. “I thought our wide receiver group was solid, but adding another Pro Bowl player is fantastic. I remember my trade to the Los Angeles Rams; it brings renewed energy, especially switching from a struggling to a strong team. I believe Cooper feels that excitement too. I’m relieved I wasn’t involved in the negotiations since I’ve had no success in recruiting players.”
As for their status in the upcoming Week 9 game against the Miami Dolphins, it remains uncertain if both Miller and Cooper will be active, particularly since Cooper had a wrist injury limiting him in Wednesday’s practice. Regardless of their immediate availability, both veterans bring substantial experience and production that could significantly benefit a young Buffalo squad with high aspirations this season.
