SANTA CLARA, Calif. — With the first pick of the 2011 draft, the Carolina Panthers drafted Cam Newton. Picking second, the Denver Broncos chose Von Miller.
That night five years ago, Newton and Miller sat at a small, circular table backstage at Radio City Music Hall in Manhattan. Their families were with them. Everyone all talked. They wished each other luck. Then they parted.
They reunited Sunday at Super Bowl 50 in the Panthers’ backfield.
Instead of shaking Newton’s hand, Miller offered warm embraces. He was so happy to see Newton that he tried smothering him.