Von Miller Reiterates There’s ‘No Chance’ He’ll Play Under Franchise Tag

Image via Zimbio

Locking up free agent linebacker Von Miller, a four-time Pro Bowler and reigning Super Bowl MVP, was supposedly a top priority for the Denver Broncos this offseason, but with just five weeks remaining until the start of training camp, the gulf between sides seems to be widening.

Last week Miller turned down a six-year deal worth $114.5 million, $39.8 million of which was guaranteed. That contract would have made him the highest paid non-quarterback in NFL history. During his recent visit to the White House, Miller said “real progress” had been made, but negotiations have since broken down.

If no long-term deal is reached, the Broncos will almost certainly slap the franchise tag on Miller, who would then be paid $14.1 million for the 2016 season. For his part, Miller has gone back and forth on how receptive he would be to playing under the tag.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=quJK9MfuBjQ&feature=youtu.be

First he flatly rejected the notion, making it clear he would be willing to sit out the entire season if it came down to that. In an interview with Chelsea Handler on Wednesday, Miller seemed to soften his stance, telling her he didn’t expect to sit out and that he couldn’t see himself playing anywhere but Denver.

A day later and Miller is already walking back his…walking back. A no-show at Broncos mandatory minicamp this week, Miller took to Instagram Thursday to reiterate his opposition to potentially being franchised.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BGuKlc7m0DP/

Miller’s comments to Handler were widely reported and seemed to suggest he wasn’t really willing to play the only bargaining chip he has—the threat of sitting out—thereby weakening the already unfavorable position players have in contract negotiations.

Unfortunately for Broncos fans, this high-stakes game of chicken has no end in sight.