The Denver Broncos were without one of their major defensive stars for much of the 2013 season, and yet they were still able to make a run to the Super Bowl.

Perhaps if two-time Pro Bowler and 2011 defensive rookie of the year Von Miller was on the field on that fateful February evening, the Broncos would not have gotten beat down by a score of 43-8. On the other hand, maybe Miller would not have been able to stop the surging Seahawks offense, but you can bet he wishes he was there to try.

Last season was a rough one for Miller. After being suspended for the first six games due to a violation of the NFL’s banned substances policy, Miller returned to the Broncos for two months before tearing his ACL against the Houston Texans.

Playing in only nine games was tough for Miller, as he was considered to be one of the NFL’s best defensive players, and was certainly hoping to vie for Defensive Player of the Year in 2013.

Although the 2013 campaign was cut short due to injury, Miller’s confidence and goals are still as high as ever as the Denver Broncos recently opened up their training camp in preparation of the 2014 season.

“I want to be the best, that’s my mission.” – Von Miller pic.twitter.com/Etn96TQ4oD — Benjamin Hochman (@hochman) July 24, 2014

Miller’s athleticism and ability to play multiple positions has made him one of the most threatening players on the defensive side of the ball in the NFL.

Only time will tell, however, with regards to how well he plays coming off ACL surgery.