Broncos' Von Miller, Chris Harris making progress on ACL injuries

[Denver Native (Carol)]

Von Miller and Chris Harris walked to the podium for Wednesday's interviews. Their absence of limps creates as much optimism as anything this offseason.

"You get Von and me back with the new guys, and this defense is going to be scary," predicted Harris.

Miller (right knee) and Harris (left knee) each tore an anterior cruciate ligament late last season. Miller's snapped in Houston in December, followed by Harris' a month later. They remain on schedule to play the season-opener on Sept. 7. It's possible they could make their debuts in the third preseason game, but the Broncos will take a methodical approach. They aren't participating in team drills. It isn't far off, though.


rest - plus stuff on Orange Julius
http://www.denverpost.com/broncos/ci_25897424/broncos-von-miller-chris-harris-making-progress-acl

[Denver Native (Carol)]

Aldon Smith goes through an apparent relapse, and Broncos fans worry about Von Miller.

Josh Gordon is facing a raised level of punishment to a full-season suspension, and reflexively minds relate to Miller.

So far, there are encouraging signs suggesting Miller, the Broncos' star linebacker, is not another Smith, the troubled San Francisco 49ers' pass rusher, or Gordon, the Cleveland Browns' dynamic but embattled receiver.


rest - plus video
http://www.denverpost.com/broncos/ci_25899536/broncos-linebacker-von-miller-has-grown-up-since

[Denver Native (Carol)]

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. --From injury to suspension to an arrest, 2013 was a nightmare for Von Miller. It's doubtful that any other player in the league was more thankful to turn ahead to the new year than he was, after his reputation was dented on and off the field.

Even as he continues his rehabilitation from a torn anterior cruciate ligament, Miller has a fresh start. He's already taken part in individual drills. He has a new appreciation for the daily grind of coming to team headquarters, admitting, "It's just different now."

But the Broncos' decision to exercise the fifth-year option on Miller's contract was an affirmation of their thoughts on Miller. Even though teams have the choice to walk back the fifth-year option -- which came into existence for 2011 first-round picks -- the issuance of it was the most concrete example of the Broncos' faith in Miller to return to form off the field, and mature on it.

Miller got the message.

rest - plus video
http://www.denverbroncos.com/news-and-blogs/article-1/Miller-Looks-to-Affirm-Broncos-Trust/91d8bfe2-171e-4aa6-a184-e4188d62b4f0

[CrazyHorse]

We need these guys. Major difference makers on the defense. Think the Super Bowl would have turned out the same if these guys were playing?