Buffalo Bills linebacker Von Miller secured a hefty $1.5 million bonus after recording the sixth sack of his season just 52 seconds after the kickoff during the team’s Week 18 game against the New England Patriots. This early sack on rookie quarterback Drake Maye was not only pivotal for the game but also marked Miller's achievement of the sack milestone outlined in his restructured contract.
Miller, the Super Bowl 50 MVP, was on the hunt for contract incentives during the final regular-season match. Entering the game, he was just one sack shy of hitting the necessary six, which unlocked the significant bonus. “It was great because it was the first third down and the third play of the game so it made it easier on me,” said Bills head coach Sean McDermott, acknowledging the ease with which Miller achieved this goal.
The sack itself came on the Patriots' first offensive drive. On third-and-13, Miller rushed with determination, reaching out his right arm to barely graze the shoulder of Maye, who stumbled and fell, resulting in Miller being credited with the sack and a 9-yard loss. This marked the easiest $1.5 million Miller ever earned. “I wasn’t even thinking about it, but everybody, my teammates, were saying, ‘Just get one, just get one,’” Miller reflected after the game, emphasizing the collective excitement from his teammates.
Despite Miller's individual success, the game ended with the Bills losing to the Patriots 23-16. The loss was inconsequential for Buffalo, which had already clinched the AFC East title and home-field advantage for the playoffs. The focus for the Bills now shifts toward the Wild Card round matchup against the Denver Broncos, where Miller hopes to shine against his former team.
This season has not been without its challenges for Miller. He played only a little more than 12 games due to serving a four-game suspension for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy. Miller's situation drew attention not just for his performance but also because of his history and the circumstances surrounding his suspension, which stemmed from allegations of assault. Thankfully, the case was closed with no charges filed.
Nonetheless, Miller’s determination to contribute to his team remained unwavering, with his incredible performance standing out amid the backdrop of personal challenges. His record now boasts 128.5 career sacks, placing him 16th all-time on the NFL's career sack list, and he continues to exhibit the prowess and skill expected of him throughout his illustrious career.
While Miller's achievement was personal, it was also part of a larger theme seen across the league during Week 18, where numerous players aimed for performance incentives. Buffalo Bills punter Sam Martin took advantage of this moment as well, earning his own bonus for executing his 25th punt of the season within the opponent's 20-yard line, showcasing the team camaraderie at play.
Miller’s performance this season — marked by his adherence to his contract incentives — returns focus on not just individual accomplishments, but the broader competitive spirit among players striving to finish strong as the playoffs approach. “Feel good for Sam,” McDermott said, acknowledging the good nature of the locker room and the push for teammates to help each other achieve their goals. “We all want each other to win, and so it’s fun, everyone rooting for each other.”
With the playoffs looming and the excitement all around, Miller's contributions go beyond just earnings; they reflect the passion and grit he brings to the field. Bills fans can hope for more memorable performances as they gear up for what they hope to be a deep playoff run.