Broncos officially do something they haven't done for over 40 years

Though it may have seemed as a forgone conclusion at this point, the Denver Broncos have officially named rookie Bo Nix as their starting quarterback.

The Broncos drafted Nix at No. 12 overall in this past year's draft. Coach Sean Payton wouldn't commit to Nix being his starter during the offseason, but Nix has progressed enough throughout training camp and preseason to earn the role. Nix will become the first Broncos rookie quarterback to start Week 1 since John Elway did back in 1983.

Nix beat out veterans Jarrett Stidham and Zach Wilson to win the job. In his first two preseason games, Nix has compiled an impressive stat line of 23-30 completed passes for 205 yards and two touchdowns. He has also racked up 29 rushing yards and has shown the ability to throw accurately on the run.

Many experts considered Nix a reach at twelfth overall for Denver and predicted that he would ride the bench for most of his rookie year. However, Nix had a long and decorated college career, starting the most games of any quarterback in NCAA history between the Auburn Tigers and Oregon Ducks at 61.

After leading the NCAA in pass completions, completion percentage, and passing touchdowns, Nix was named the Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Year in 2023. He has clearly carried that momentum into his professional career, but now the real test will begin in the regular season.

It may be of benefit to Nix that the Broncos don't have very big expectations this year, allowing him to have a longer leash to develop. If Nix can show considerable progression from Week 1 to Week 18, the season will be considered a success and will give Denver the opportunity to go all-in for 2025.

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