Von Miller will miss the rest of the NFL season after undergoing surgery, where an ACL tear was discovered.
The Buffalo Bills star underwent surgery after being carted off against the Detroit Lions last month. Miller later had an MRI scan to determine the extent of his injury, and the initial results revealed that he did not tear his ACL.
However, during surgery it was discovered that this was not the case, and according to NFL reporter Ian Rapoport they discovered it was indeed torn like first feared. Miller will now miss the rest of the season, and has released a video to the Bills fans reassuring them that he will be back stronger and better than ever after recovering.
"Bills Mafia, what's good? I'm good and I'll be right back," Miller said in a video released from his hospital bed. "Mentally, I couldn't be in a better spot, I think that is the majority of it.
"Don't feel sorry for me or say that you hate this for me, I am good! I'm excited for the opportunity to show my team-mates how tough I am and how hard I work, and how important this means to me. I love you and I appreciate you guys, all love and respect. Don't blink baby!"
According to Rapoport, the MRI scan's and other images did not conclusively show that Miller had torn an ACL, which made for positive news at the time. The original plan for his surgery was to reposition the lateral meniscus that had moved into another channel, while also cleaning up cartilage damage.
However, upon exploration the worst case scenario became a reality, as they found that there was sufficient damage, and repair of the ACL was completed. What's more alarming, is that it's the same knee that Miller faced the issue with back in 2013.
If the original diagnosis was correct, there was hope that Miller could've returned towards the end of the regular season. With Miller back and getting fit ahead of the play-offs, their defence would be almost back to full strength.
But that's now not the case, and last year's Super Bowl Champion with the Los Angeles Rams will have to sit and watch from the sidelines, and focus on getting fit for next season. The initial incident occurred when Miller fell down after colliding with Lions centre Frank Ragnow.
Miller was attempting to sack Jared Goff towards the end of the first half against the Lions in November. Miller was carted off, and fans were already starting to stress as he injured the same knee nine-years ago.
The eight-time Pro-Bowler was only just recently discussing his happiness at the Bills since trading at the end of last season, commenting about how good he's feeling in Buffalo. "I enjoy being here. I enjoy winning," Miller said.
"And that's what it's all about for me. I'm all about trying to get the most out of my teammates, trying to get them in a positive mindset, trying to uplift everybody and have everybody ready for Thursday or Sunday or whatever it may be."
