Von Miller, Injured Thumb and the Denver Broncos Defense: Fan Perspective

During the November 27^th game against the San Diego Chargers, Denver Broncos rookie LB Von Miller(notes) sustained an injury to his right thumb. On November 29^th, Miller underwent surgery to repair the ligament.

When I heard this news I must admit I was a little concerned. While most of the media attention for the Broncos has gone to QB Tim Tebow(notes), Miller has played a crucial role in the defensive line and is really making his name known.

He has recorded 10.5 sacks in 11 games and is only one sack away from the team record set in 1980 by Rulon Jones. He is also only four sacks away from setting the NFL rookie record set in 1999 by Jevon Kearse(notes).

While the loss of Miller could prove damaging for the defense, don't rule him out yet. Even though he just had surgery a few days ago, he was at practice on December 2^nd with limited participation and wearing a blue cast and glove for protection. However, he is still not cleared to play and the Broncos will make the final decision before the game on December 4^th.

Now, I have personally had a few surgeries and I have healed quickly. Having said that, playing in an NFL football game only days after having surgery is not something most people would even think about. I know I wouldn't. But Miller is determined to play and it seems determination is something that is running wild with the Denver Broncos right now.

They went from a team no one was expecting to do well to a team that, despite not looking great on paper, still keeps putting wins on the board. Tebow, in his non-traditional way, is scoring the touchdowns. The defensive line seems to have come alive and Miller is a top leader in the race for Defensive Rookie of the Year with his 10.5 sacks and 58 tackles.

As a fan, I hope that Miller is given the green light to play against the Minnesota Vikings. I think it would be great if, injured thumb and all, Miller can come up with the sacks he needs to break a few records as well.

Deborah Braconnier is a former athlete and medical professional. She is a freelance writer and Featured Contributor for the NFL and Olympics with Y!CN. She has followed the Denver Broncos since she was a child and can usually be found yelling at the television during football season. Follow her on Twitter at @fwcdeborah.

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