Von Miller: Not mentally ready to play preseason opener

The Super Bowl champion Denver Broncos took the field for the first time this preseason Thursday night, but their biggest star didn't join them.

Von Miller was one of a couple healthy players who were held out by coach Gary Kubiak. The Super Bowl MVP told reporters he wasn't mentally prepared to play yet, after an offseason that included a lengthy contract holdout and an appearance on "Dancing with the Stars".

However, Miller did show up and sign for his fans in Chicago. Can't say the guy isn't earning that $114 million.

Turns out the Broncos didn't need him, either. Mark Sanchez had a successful audition for the starting job and the defense pitched a shutout, 22-0 over the Bears. The Broncos had seven sacks despite playing without Miller, DeMarcus Ware, Aqib Talib and Chris Harris Jr.

Just no super sack dances.