In a strategic move during the NFL draft, the Denver Broncos secured their quarterback of the future, drafting former Oregon standout Bo Nix with the 12th overall pick on Thursday night. Amidst speculation and a history of quarterback instability since Peyton Manning’s retirement, the Broncos bypassed blue-chip defenders to address their pressing need under center.
Since the retirement of legendary quarterback Peyton Manning in 2015, the Broncos have struggled to find a consistent presence under center, cycling through an astounding 13 starting quarterbacks. Despite previous trade maneuvers and the unsuccessful acquisition of Russell Wilson, the Broncos seized the opportunity to land Nix without surrendering additional draft capital.
Nix’s selection at No. 12 ties the franchise’s highest quarterback pick since Jay Cutler in 2006, marking a pivotal moment in Denver’s quarterback search.
Nix said he believed the Broncos had some interest in him during the pre-draft wind-up, but that “you never know until you get the phone call,” Nix said.
“I’ll be in a good situation to learn and grow,” Nix added.
Bo Nix boasts an impressive resume, bringing a wealth of experience to the Denver Broncos. With three seasons at Auburn followed by two at Oregon, Nix’s collegiate journey spanned 61 games, a testament to his durability and dedication to the game. Notably, he played in at least 10 games in each of his five seasons, solidifying his status as one of the most seasoned players in the draft class.
Nix’s tenure at Oregon proved to be a transformative period in his career, marked by remarkable achievements on the field. During his time with the Ducks, Nix showcased his prowess as a quarterback, delivering 74 of his 113 career touchdown passes. Furthermore, he achieved an impressive back-to-back seasons with a completion rate of at least 71%, demonstrating his efficiency and consistency under pressure.
As Nix transitions to the NFL, his extensive experience and proven track record position him as a valuable asset for the Broncos as they seek to revitalize their quarterback position and embark on a new era of success.
The Broncos’ decision to draft Nix underscores their commitment to finding the right fit for their roster, as emphasized by head coach Payton and general manager George Paton. With a roster in need of impact players across various positions, the Broncos prioritize selecting players who can contribute immediately, whether at quarterback, offensive tackle, or wide receiver.
Nix joins a quarterback room already featuring Zach Wilson, acquired in a recent trade, and Jarrett Stidham, who saw action at the end of the 2023 season.
After three turbulent seasons with the New York Jets, Zach Wilson was informed by the organization that they were seeking to find him a new team. Wilson’s on-field struggles, including a 57% completion rate and a 25:23 interception-to-touchdown ratio, prompted the Jets to view his departure as a chance for a fresh start for the 24-year-old quarterback.
In Denver, Coach Payton emphasized the need for competition at the quarterback position, leading to the acquisition of both Zach Wilson and Bo Nix. This move aims to create a competitive environment where the best player earns the starting role, with Nix potentially becoming the long-term solution.
The Broncos’ trade for Zach Wilson, the 2021 second overall pick, signifies a new chapter for the quarterback after three underwhelming seasons in New York. Joining Wilson and Nix on the roster is Jarrett Stidham, who showed promise with a 1-1 record after replacing Russell Wilson last season.
Speaking of Russell Wilson, despite his move to the Pittsburgh Steelers, he remains the highest-paid player on the Broncos’ roster, with Denver covering a significant portion of his 2024 salary. This arrangement reflects the financial implications of Wilson’s departure and the team’s commitment to fulfilling contractual obligations.
As the NFL draft unfolds and teams make pivotal selections, the Broncos’ choice to draft Bo Nix stands out as a pivotal moment in their quest for quarterback stability. With the pieces in place, Denver looks ahead to a new era under center, buoyed by the potential of their young signal-caller and the promise of brighter days ahead.
