The air in Denver just feels different when number 58 is mentioned. Even now, years after the trade that sent shockwaves through the Mile High City, the mere hint of a homecoming makes fans lose their minds. But let’s get real for a second. We’ve heard the rumors before. Every time Von Miller hits free agency or posts a cryptic photo of a sunset over the Rockies, the "is Von Miller coming back to the Broncos" chatter starts all over again.
Well, this time it’s not just fan fiction.
Honestly, the man himself is the one fueling the fire. In January 2026, Von didn't hold back on his Free Range podcast. He looked right into the camera and basically begged for a spot. "Y’all make room for me over there with the Denver Broncos," he said. It wasn't just a casual "I miss the food" comment. He specifically called out the current young stars, Nik Bonitto and Jonathon Cooper, saying he wants to be in that linebacker room to mentor them.
He wants to be the DeMarcus Ware to their Von Miller. It’s poetic. But is it actually going to happen?
Why Von Miller Wants the Broncos Now
Von isn't the same guy who decimated the Panthers in Super Bowl 50. He knows that. You know that. He’s 36, turning 37 in March, and he just finished a 2025 season with the Washington Commanders where he actually looked... pretty good? He racked up nine sacks. That’s not "washed" territory.
That production pushed his career total to 138.5 sacks. He’s currently tied with his idol, DeMarcus Ware, for ninth on the all-time list. He needs just 1.5 more to pass him. He’s made it clear he isn’t retiring until that happens.
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- The Mentor Role: Von explicitly said he wants to "give Nik Bonitto all the knowledge" he has.
- The Legacy Play: Ending a Hall of Fame career where it started is the ultimate NFL fairy tale.
- The Proximity: He still has deep roots in Colorado. The fans still treat him like royalty.
It's a "swansong" mission. He's not looking for a $100 million contract anymore. He’s looking for a locker and a chance to chase 150 sacks in orange and blue.
The Cold Hard Business Reality in Denver
Here’s where things get tricky. NFL front offices aren't exactly known for being sentimental. George Paton and Sean Payton are running a tight ship. The Broncos’ defense in 2025 was actually a bright spot, especially the edge rushing duo of Nik Bonitto and Jonathon Cooper.
Bonitto is coming off a massive 14-sack season. Cooper is a foundational piece. Then you have Jonah Elliss and Dondrea Tillman in the mix.
Where does a 37-year-old veteran fit?
If the Broncos were to bring him back, it would be strictly as a situational pass rusher. Think 15–20 snaps a game. Third downs only. The "closer" role. The problem is roster spots are gold. If you keep Von, you might have to cut a younger, cheaper player who contributes on special teams. Von has already admitted he's not "doing special teams" at this stage of his life.
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What the Experts are Saying
Insiders are split, but the needle is moving toward "maybe."
Zac Stevens of DNVR reported that the interest from Von’s side is 100% genuine. It’s not a leverage play for more money elsewhere. He legitimately wants to be back. On the flip side, some analysts point out that the Broncos moved on in 2021 for a reason. They got the draft picks that eventually became—wait for it—Nik Bonitto.
The irony is thick. The trade that sent Von away created the very player he now wants to mentor.
The Money Gap
In 2025, Von played on a one-year deal in Washington after being released by the Buffalo Bills. He’s a free agent again in March 2026. Money shouldn't be the dealbreaker here. He’s made plenty. If he comes to Denver, it’s on a veteran minimum deal with some sack incentives.
The real hurdle is the "Sean Payton Factor." Payton likes his guys. He likes versatility. A pure pass-rush specialist who doesn't play special teams is a luxury. Is it a luxury the 2026 Broncos can afford?
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Will it Actually Happen?
If I’m a betting man, I’d say the odds are better now than they’ve been in five years. The Broncos' Super Bowl window with Bo Nix is starting to crack open. Having a guy in the building who has "been there, done that" twice over is invaluable for a young locker room.
Plus, the fan pressure will be immense. The Broncos' social media team probably sees "Bring Von Home" in their sleep.
There is a path. It involves Von accepting a very specific, limited role and the Broncos deciding that his leadership outweighs the loss of a backup special teamer.
What Fans Should Watch For
- The Legal/Contractual Window: Free agency officially kicks off in March. If there’s no news by then, the "coming back" dream might stay a dream.
- Roster Shuffles: Watch if the Broncos let any of their depth edge rushers walk. That opens the door.
- Nik Bonitto’s Influence: Bonitto actually commented "I'm people" on a post defending Von’s legacy. The young guys want him there. That carries weight.
Basically, the ball is in Denver's court. Von has opened the door, walked through it, and sat down at the table. Now we just wait to see if the Broncos pull out a chair.
To stay updated on the potential reunion, keep a close eye on the Broncos' official transactions starting the first week of March. You should also monitor Von Miller’s social media for any "orange and blue" hints, as he typically signals his intentions there first. If a deal is struck, expect it to be a one-year, incentive-heavy contract focused on his pursuit of the all-time sack record.