In October, a review of the rookie quarterbacks showed that Nix was struggling significantly, earning a D+ grade for his early performances. Concerns about his game management were prevalent, particularly regarding his rushed gameplay that compromised his footwork and mechanics—issues that appeared during his college career and seemed to have followed him to the NFL with the Denver Broncos. Many feared for Nix and the Broncos as they faced challenges.
However, things have taken a positive turn since those early evaluations. The Broncos have played a total of 17 games this season, and Nix has shown impressive development as a quarterback. Especially notable was the Broncos’ recent 38-6 victory over the Atlanta Falcons, where Nix excelled with 28 completions out of 33 attempts for 307 yards and four touchdowns. His synergy with head coach Sean Payton was a highlight, as the two worked together effectively to create successful offensive strategies.
During this game, the Broncos utilized various motions and formations to exploit the Falcons’ defense, demonstrating clever play design. One standout example was using wide receiver Marvin Mims in the backfield to create mismatches. This tactic forced defenders to shift, allowing Nix to make precise throws under pressure. His first touchdown pass, creatively designed by Payton, involved misdirection that drew defenders away from the area where the tight end scored easily.
Nix also showed significant progress in his footwork and overall decision-making under pressure. Previously criticized for being too jumpy, his calmness in the pocket was palpable as he threw a powerful downfield pass. The improvement in the Broncos’ offensive line pass protection, which has seen pressure rates drop, is another factor contributing to Nix’s better performance as it allowed him more stability in the pocket.
With the team in the midst of a playoff race, continuing to support Nix’s development will be crucial for the Broncos’ success in both the short and long term. The narrative surrounding Nix’s transition from a challenging start to a promising trajectory is inspiring, showing that with time and support, significant improvement is possible in the competitive world of the NFL.