The San Francisco 49ers’ pass rush has been a glaring weakness, finishing last season with a meager total of just 20 sacks. In response, the organization has been linked to several veteran free agents in search of immediate depth and production. While names like Joey Bosa and Jadeveon Clowney have dominated the speculation, a compelling new name has entered the conversation: future Hall of Famer Von Miller.
In a recent June 3 episode of his YouTube channel, KNBR’s Larry Krueger made a strong case for the 49ers to pursue the veteran edge rusher as a short-term, high-impact solution.
“I just think that, look, you’re the 49ers and you’ve got some talent,” Krueger said. “You’ve got Romelo Height, you’ve got Mikail Kamara, you’ve got obviously the great Nick Bosa, and you’ve got Mykel Williams, who needs to develop a bag of tricks.”
Krueger emphasized that adding Miller would provide the perfect veteran mentorship for San Francisco’s young edge defenders.
“What would be the perfect way to introduce Kamara and Height to the NFL? Let them watch Von Miller. Von Miller’s got all the tricks of the trade. All the tricks are in his bag. He can do it, man. He can still do it.”
Proven Production at Age 36
Despite being in the twilight of his career, Miller proved last season with the Washington Commanders that he remains a legitimate pass-rushing threat. The veteran played 420 defensive snaps and earned a solid 64.4 overall PFF defensive grade. He generated 36 total pressures, including 10 sacks, 22 hurries, and four quarterback hits. Miller also contributed 14 solo tackles against the run, showing he can still hold up in all phases.
Krueger added a poetic touch, suggesting a homecoming of sorts for Miller in the Bay Area.
“I say bring Von Miller back to the place of his greatest performance. His greatest performance was Super Bowl 50 for the Broncos against the Panthers at Levi’s. And he would be a fantastic addition.”
The analyst pointed to the long-standing 49ers tradition of bringing in veteran pass rushers for their knowledge and technique.
“So much about rushing the passer is about technique and it’s about knowledge. That’s why the Niners always brought back Kevin Greene, and Charles Haley had a stint at the end, because the knowledge you have as an outside rusher is stuff that can help you sack the quarterback in the present. Having that knowledge is really, really important. So, I think it makes sense if you could go after Von Miller.”
Broncos Reunion Unlikely
While some have speculated about a sentimental return to Denver, where Miller enjoyed his greatest successes, that scenario appears doubtful. 9News reporter Mike Klis addressed the possibility on May 31, writing: “It’s unlikely the Broncos would bring back Von Miller, but stranger things have happened.”
With the Broncos coming off an AFC Championship appearance and positioning themselves as contenders, they may opt for younger or more long-term solutions at the position.
A Move That Would Change the NFC Landscape
Should the 49ers move aggressively on Von Miller, they would be adding a battle-tested, Super Bowl-winning pass rusher to an already talented defensive front featuring Nick Bosa and a group of promising young edge defenders. At a time when the NFC remains highly competitive, a veteran presence like Miller could provide the missing piece in both production and leadership.
While alternatives like Bosa or Clowney remain on the board, Miller’s combination of recent production, mentorship value, and championship pedigree makes him an intriguing and potentially ideal fit for what the 49ers are trying to build.
The NFC has officially been put on notice.
