Defensive honor is Miller's time: Denver LB Von Miller received 39 votes from a nationwide panel of 50 media members who regularly cover the NFL to claim the 2011 Associated Press NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award. San Francisco LB Aldon Smith was second with 11 votes. Miller made 64 tackles and had 11 1/2 sacks despite missing one game and playing the last four contests with a cumbersome cast protecting his surgically repaired right thumb. “It’s special because you only get one rookie season,” Miller said. “You don’t get two tries at it. It’s really a one-and-done thing. That was probably the most special thing about it, you only get one shot to accomplish this feat.” (Updated 02/05/2012)
Injury Report
No information available at this time (Updated 5/25/12).
Fantasy Analysis
Miller, the No. 2 overall pick in the previous NFL Draft, sparked a defensive turnaround in Denver with his steady and sometimes spectacular play. He is the second Broncos player to win the award, joining Mike Croel (1991). And as good as Miller was this year, he promised he’ll be even better next year. “I have no doubt that I’ll be a totally different player next year,” Miller said. “It will be night and day.” Fantasy owners should look to a healthy Miller as a solid selection in the early rounds of IDP drafts for the 2012 campaign. (Updated 02/05/2012).
05/21/2012 17:02 When comes to pass rush, left side is less left out now
The conventional wisdom had a bulkier end anchoring the left side of the defense with the pass-rush star on the right. Len Pasquarelli says Mario Williams' request to man the left side in Buffalo shows changing times.
Von Miller is coming off an impressive rookie season in 2011 when he was named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. Miller made 64 tackles and had 11.5 sacks despite missing one game and playing the last four contests with a cumbersome cast protecting his surgically repaired right thumb. Now Miller has to prove his rookie year wasn't a fluke, and he should have another solid campaign in 2012. Miller projects as a No. 3 linebacker; if his tackle totals remain high and he continues to reach double digits in sacks then his Fantasy value will be solid. Miller is worth drafting with a mid-round pick. (Updated 4/25/12)
