Von Miller sends 4-word message to Commanders coaches
The Washington Commanders need to turn their season around. Washington is 3-5 and on a three-game losing streak heading into Week 9. The Commanders have been ravaged by injuries on both sides of the ball, which certainly doesn’t help. But one veteran player could give them a boost on defense this weekend.
Commanders linebacker Von Miller did not stutter when answering a question from reporters on Thursday.
Miller was asked if he could see his role on third downs increasing as Washington deals with multiple injuries at edge rusher. His answer said said it all.
“I’m all for it,” Miller replied, per Commanders reporter Tashan Reed.
The Commanders desperately need more bodies at edge rusher. Dorance Armstrong, Javontae Jean-Baptiste, Drake Jackson, and Deatrich Wise Jr. are all on injured reserve. That leaves only Jalyn Holmes and Preston Smith at edge rusher.
Miller currently plays off-ball linebacker for the Commanders, but he has plenty of experience rushing the passer.
Miller only has 11 total tackles on the season despite playing in eight games. He is currently being underused, so it makes sense that he would be hungry for more snaps.
It will be interesting to see if the Commanders give Miller some pass rushing snaps in Week 9.
Will Commanders QB Jayden Daniels play in Week 9?
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The biggest factor that could change Washington’s fortunes is getting QB Jayden Daniels back from injury.
Daniels missed Monday’s loss against the Chiefs due to a hamstring injury. But fortunately, he is expected to return in Week 9 for the Commanders.
“If everything goes right, hopefully I’m out there on Sunday night,” Daniels said on Wednesday via Tom Schad of PostSports.
The bad news is that Washington will be without Terry McLaurin, who re-injured his quad against the Chiefs. Washington’s offense simply has not been the same without McLaurin, who has only played in four games this season.
Daniels could be forced to rely more on Deebo Samuel and Jacory Croskey-Merritt with McLaurin out of the lineup. But the Commanders will always have a chance as long as Daniels is healthy.
Next up for the Commanders is a Week 9 matchup against the Seahawks.
Justin Jefferson Fires Back at Critics: “If They Have to Game-Plan to Stop Me, Then I’m Doing My Job”
Minnesota Vikings star wide receiver Justin Jefferson has never been one to shy away from the spotlight — and after a Chicago Bears player claimed Jefferson only “dominates in the first half,” the All-Pro receiver delivered a calm but powerful response that quickly spread across social media.
“If they say I only explode in the first half, that’s fine — at least they’re talking about me. I don’t need to argue or prove anything online. Every time I step on the field, I let my play do the talking. They can say whatever they want, but the truth is, they still have to spend the whole week figuring out how to stop me. And that says it all.
Jefferson Responds With Class and Confidence
Rather than firing back with trash talk, Jefferson’s measured response showcased both maturity and confidence. It’s the mindset of a player who understands his impact goes beyond a single game or stat line.
“I don’t play for attention,” Jefferson continued. “I play for my teammates, for the city of Minnesota, and for everyone who believes in me. When defenses design their entire game plan around you, that’s not pressure — that’s respect.”
That subtle but sharp remark resonated with fans across the league, reminding everyone why Jefferson remains one of the most respected receivers in football.
A Season of Redemption and Dominance
After missing time last season due to injury, Jefferson has come back stronger than ever. His chemistry with rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy has been steadily improving, and his big-play ability has helped Minnesota remain competitive in the NFC North race.
In his past three games, Jefferson has averaged over 110 receiving yards, reaffirming his status as one of the league’s elite wideouts. Despite defensive coordinators scheming relentlessly to contain him — often with double or even triple coverage — Jefferson continues to find ways to impact the game.
Head coach Kevin O’Connell praised Jefferson’s leadership after the recent win:
“Justin’s work ethic and mindset are what set him apart. When you’re one of the best, people are going to talk. He knows that, and he turns that noise into motivation.”
The Message Behind the Words
Jefferson’s comments reflect a deeper truth about what it means to be a franchise player in today’s NFL — understanding that greatness draws criticism, but resilience defines legacy. His response wasn’t about ego; it was about focus, professionalism, and letting performance speak louder than words.
As the Vikings push forward in the season, Jefferson’s mindset could become the emotional anchor the team needs. In a league driven by headlines and sound bites, his calm confidence reminds everyone that true stars don’t just react — they rise.
