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Cowboys Sign Von Miller to One-Year Deal to Enhance Defense

Von Miller joins the Cowboys on a one-year contract to strengthen their defense.

Una Vargas

August 18, 20262 min read

The Dallas Cowboys have secured veteran linebacker Von Miller on a one-year contract as they aim to bolster their defense. Miller, who previously played for the Washington Commanders, recorded nine sacks in the 2025 season and is expected to contribute significantly to a revamped defensive lineup that includes several new starters and a new defensive coordinator, Christian Parker.

Head coach Brian Schottenheimer praised Miller's football intelligence and quickness, stating that although he won't be on the field for every play, his presence will enhance the team's defensive capabilities. Schottenheimer noted, "He understands the game; the football intellect is top tier. The production was really real.

Still has first step quickness; he understands angles, has an assortment of moves. He’s not going to play 60 plays a game, but he’s going to get the snaps that he gets and will make us better."

In 2025, Miller participated in 17 games but only started three, logging 420 defensive snaps, which was 37% of the Commanders' total. His role with the Cowboys is likely to mirror this usage, focusing on critical situations such as third downs and passing plays, allowing younger players like Rashan Gary and Donovan Ezeiruaku to handle early downs.

Miller, who was drafted second overall in 2011 out of Texas A&M, has established himself as one of the NFL's premier defenders. He won the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award in his inaugural season and was named Super Bowl MVP in 2015 while playing for the Denver Broncos. He also secured a second Super Bowl title with the Los Angeles Rams in 2021.

Entering the 2026 season, Miller holds the record for the most sacks among active players with 138.5, tying him with former Cowboy DeMarcus Ware for 13th place on the all-time list. With just 3.5 more sacks, he could break into the top 10, but the Cowboys are optimistic about his overall contributions beyond just numbers.

Source: si.com.

Sources

https://www.si.com/nfl/cowboys/onsi/brian-schottenheimer-explains-how-von-miller-will-help-cowboys

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Una Vargas

Una Vargas covers Plano high school and area college sports.

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