Nix Shines in Preseason Action

Five quarterbacks were selected in the first round of this year's NFL Draft, but perhaps none was more surprising than the Broncos selecting Bo Nix with the 12th pick. With five seasons of collegiate experience, many considered Nix the most “pro-ready” quarterback in his class. The Broncos faced the Packers this past weekend in their second preseason game, and Nix certainly looked the part.

The 24-year-old rookie started the game and played the first two series for the Broncos, both resulting in scores. Nix delivered an impressive performance, showcasing great touch on his passes and commanding control of the offense. He finished the day completing 8 of 9 passes for 80 yards and a touchdown. His timing and precision, especially on a memorable throw to the left sideline, caught the attention of fans and analysts nationwide.

Nix is in the midst of a three-way quarterback competition with Zach Wilson and Jarrett Stidham, and his performance should put him in good standing with Head Coach Sean Payton. Coming out of the draft, Payton praised Nix’s accuracy, calling it one of the best in the class. Payton also recalled how Nix’s pre-draft visit to the team left a strong impression on the coaching staff. With promising reports emerging from Broncos camp, it seems Payton’s intuition about the former Oregon and Auburn QB could prove fruitful for Denver.

The Broncos have been searching for a steady quarterback since Peyton Manning retired after their 2016 Super Bowl victory. Nix is the latest in a long line of QBs to come through Denver since then, and he might just be the one to right the ship. However, there has been no official announcement from Payton regarding the starting QB for Week 1. With only a few weeks until the regular season begins, the final preseason game could solidify the choice. If Nix delivers another performance like this one, there’s no reason he shouldn’t be under center come Week 1.