The NFL's four-game suspension of LB Von Miller yesterday "caps a promising-turned-ugly offseason for the Broncos," according to Mike Klis of the DENVER POST. The team lost DE Elvis Dumervil "in an embarrassing transaction snafu" and "suspended two of their top front-office executives" in Player Personnel Dir Matt Russell and Pro Personnel Dir Tom Heckert "after their arrests on drunken driving charges." Miller was informed he is facing suspension "for violating the NFL's drug policy," dealing the team's defense "a serious blow." Miller has "appealed the suspension." NFLPA Assistant Exec Dir of External Affairs George Atallah wrote on his Twitter account that Miller's case "does not involve the Steroids and Related Substances Policy." Miller yesterday on his Twitter account "stated his innocence." Miller wrote, "Seeing reports about a 4 game suspension. I know I did nothing wrong. I'm sure this will be resolved fairly. Disappointed Broncos have to open camp like this" (DENVER POST, 7/23). In Denver, Troy Renck writes the Broncos' "road to glory has been filled with flashing sirens, breathalyzers and, now, a potential ban for their best defensive player." The news of Miller's suspension "came a few hours before" Brewers LF Ryan Braun "agreed to a 65-game suspension." Renck: "So excuse the cynic in all of us." When it "comes to sports in this region, it's the Broncos, and then everyone else." When execs "end up in mug shots, apologies are empty." Players "should enjoy their free time," but "when personal decisions affect the team, it's different" (DENVER POST, 7/23).
