Bo Nix addressed the media for the first time after being named the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos this season. Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton, known for his disdain for football entitlement, announced that Nix secured the starting position following a series of questions about when he would be named starter. Payton shared the news with Nix, Jarrett Stidham, and Zach Wilson shortly before practice on Wednesday.
“I just gathered each one of them right out here on the practice field,” Payton explained. Nix reacted positively, ready to focus on practice, without any elaborate celebration.
From the moment the Broncos selected Nix as the No. 12 pick in the April draft, Payton indicated a clear plan for the quarterback position. Nix was among the top quarterbacks on their draft board due to his potential to start as a rookie. The Broncos were looking for a player who embodied maturity, composure, and accuracy—qualities they believed Nix possessed.
While the future of Nix as an NFL quarterback remains uncertain, he has considerable college experience, having started 61 games at Auburn and Oregon. His performance during the draft process impressed Payton, who acknowledged Nix stood out in multiple areas, including sack differential and accuracy.
Broncos defenders have praised Nix’s skills, with safety P.J. Locke describing him as an extraordinarily efficient player, noting his confidence and mature demeanor.
Payton stressed the importance of earning the starting role, influenced by his background with Hall of Fame coach Bill Parcells. He ensured that Nix faced competition in practices rather than shielding him from contact in preseason games.
The competition for the starting quarterback position became clearer after Nix was given most of the snaps with the first team during practices leading up to the Packers game. Nix’s performance in the preseason has been strong, completing 8-of-9 passes for 80 yards and a touchdown in a game against the Packers.
Following the preseason game, Payton acknowledged Nix’s solid play but refrained from officially naming him the starter. That decision was made on Wednesday, marking a pivotal moment for both Nix and Payton as they embark on this new chapter together.
As Nix steps into his role, he will need to demonstrate poise and confidence, not only for himself but also for Payton and a Broncos fan base eager for stability at the quarterback position after many changes since Peyton Manning’s retirement. Ready or not, Nix is now set to take on the responsibilities the Broncos envisioned for him.