Von Miller’s contract details reveal what many are still missing about the savvy Dallas Cowboys addition
The Dallas Cowboys landing Von Miller is a savvy move from America’s Team. But a misunderstanding still exists from a portion of the fanbase. The contract details should clear the air.
The contract details for Von Miller’s one-year deal with the Dallas Cowboys are out and I can’t say I’m surprised about any of them. But they do confirm a clear suspicion about the addition. And honestly? It should make doubters feel much better about the signing.
Von Miller’s contract details
- One-year deal
- Base salary: $5.5 million
- Incentives: $2 million
That’s a lower price tag than Miller signed for with the Washington Commanders in 2025. Though the incentives have yet to be released, they will likely be tied to sack production and maybe even a playoff trip. Last year, Miller reached two tiers of sack incentives for a combined $1.5 million with the Commanders.
Last year, the Cowboys set up a similar incentive plan for veteran edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney with the big difference being Clowney needed the Cowboys to make the playoffs. He would have earned $750,000 had Dallas made it to January football.
Contract confirms Cowboys’ intentions here
I’ve seen many fans in social media criticize the signing for the Cowboys being “late” to Miller, the seven-time All-Pro pass rusher with a spot waiting for him in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. But I think that stems from a misunderstanding of the Cowboys’ goal with this signing.
At 37 years old, it’s true. Miller is well past his prime. But as clearly indicated by a $5.5 million deal with close to no risk, the Cowboys don’t expect him to. Instead, they want him to be part of the defense’s rotation at outside linebacker. He will likely not even bench projected starters Donovan Ezeiruaku nor Rashan Gary.
He doesn’t have to to make an impact. Miller played 37% of the defensive snaps last year and still came away with a nine-sack season. You can expect Miller to contribute on passing downs and be a solid rotational piece to the puzzle.
Not to mention, he can be a mentor for young Cowboys pass rushers. That’s particularly important considering this is Ezeiruaku’s second year in the league and Malachi Lawrence could use some pointers as a rookie.
If you weren’t sold on the move yet, let the numbers speak for themselves. Miller is here to bolster the Cowboys defensive depth. Not to be the superstar he once was. That doesn’t keep this from being a savvy move by the front office and worthy of applause.
