Denver Broncos' Von Miller sought trade before signing extension

While Von Miller was admittedly "super happy" to become the NFL's highest-paid defensive player and stay with the Denver Broncos, the linebacker's agent sought permission to seek a trade for his client just last week.

One day after the Broncos and Miller agreed to a six-year, $114.5 million contract on July 7, agent Joby Branion submitted a counter proposal with greater guaranteed money. Denver general manager John Elway turned down Branion's offer, with the latter requesting permission to find another NFL suitor for the Super Bowl 50 MVP, according to Mike Klis of 9news.com.

Klis' report did not divulge which teams -- if any -- were potential trade partners, or if the request was a ploy to force the Broncos' hand. Regardless, Elway dismissed the trade request and the sides ultimately agreed to the deal with a record $70 million guaranteed on Friday, which came hours before the NFL's franchise tag signing deadline.

Miller's guaranteed money is eclipsed only by that of Indianapolis quarterback Andrew Luck, who will receive $75 million in guarantees in his $140 million contract extension.

Miller gets a $23 million signing bonus and $42 million guaranteed at signing, $61 million guaranteed after the second year and $70 million guaranteed after the third year of the deal, according to ESPN sources.

The deal made the 27-year-old Miller the highest-paid defensive player by average at $19.083 million per year. It is also the richest contract at any position other than quarterback.

Miller took to social media to show his pleasure with the deal on Friday by posting a photo of himself in a Broncos jersey on Twitter with the caption "FOR LIFE."

Miller received the exclusive franchise tag March 1 after finishing last season with 11 sacks and four forced fumbles. The four-time Pro Bowl selection added 2 1/2 sacks and two forced fumbles to help the Broncos defeat the Carolina Panthers in Super Bowl 50.