Despite the distressing allegations of domestic violence leveled against Von Miller, Buffalo Bills General Manager Brandon Beane emphasized on Wednesday that the team is committed to allowing the legal process to unfold before passing judgment. Beane expressed disappointment in the situation and acknowledged the natural inclination to distance the team from such accusations. Nevertheless, he underscored the importance of affording Miller a fair due process.
Addressing the media as the Bills returned from their bye week, Beane confirmed that Miller is expected to participate in practice and play in the upcoming game against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday, provided there are no legal impediments. This statement comes a week after Miller turned himself into police in a Dallas suburb following a warrant issued for his arrest on charges of domestic violence against the mother of his children, who is currently pregnant.
Miller faces a serious charge of third-degree felony assault of a pregnant woman, carrying a potential sentence of 2 to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. He was released on a $5,000 bond after surrendering to authorities.
Expressing the team’s disappointment in the situation, Beane acknowledged the severity of the accusations but urged caution in making hasty judgments. He emphasized the need to allow the legal proceedings to unfold and stressed the importance of due process for everyone involved.
The alleged assault took place on Nov. 29 during the Bills’ bye week. According to a police affidavit, Miller is accused of assaulting the woman by twice placing his hands on her neck, pulling out a chunk of her hair, and throwing her onto a couch. The woman received treatment for minor injuries, including bruising on her neck.
Beane confirmed that he has had discussions with Miller and his representatives regarding the incident but chose to keep the details of those conversations private. He also stated that he has been in contact with the NFL and does not anticipate Commissioner Roger Goodell placing Miller on the exempt list at this time.
The NFL issued a statement on Wednesday, indicating that it is actively gathering information and monitoring legal developments. Historically, players are placed on the Reserve/Commissioner’s Exempt List only when formal charges are filed or when the league’s investigation concludes a potential violation of the NFL’s personal conduct policy.
The woman involved in the incident informed the police that she was six weeks pregnant, providing evidence in the form of a positive pregnancy test and a text conversation with Miller discussing the possible due date of the child and a doctor visit.
Despite the serious nature of the accusations, Miller’s status as the NFL’s active leader in sacks and his extensive accolades as a three-time All-Pro and eight-time Pro Bowl pick underscore the challenging position the team faces in navigating this situation. The league will continue to gather information before deciding on any further action.
