The Denver Broncos' 2024 first-round draft pick Bo Nix put on a display during preseason that boosted his buzz around the competition for the starting quarterback role .
Nix is fighting with Jarrett Stidham and Zach Wilson for the top spot following Russell Wilson's departure and move to the Pittsburgh Steelers . In a 34-30 victory over the Indianapolis Colts , Nix split reps with Stidham and Wilson, showcasing his skill set and making a strong case for the starting role. Stidham, who started the game, struggled to find his rhythm. His first drive ended in a punt, and his second drive culminated in an interception.
Stidham attempted a short pass to running back Samaje Perine, but the ball slipped off Perine's fingertips, was bobbled twice in the air, and was ultimately intercepted by Colts Kenny Moore II, leading to a field goal and an early 3-0 lead for Indianapolis. Nix took over on the next drive and, despite two initial incompletions, quickly found his groove.
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The ex- Oregon star QB connected with Courtland Sutton for a deep 22-yard pass, which ignited his momentum. After a brief fumble scare, Nix demonstrated his mobility by scrambling for six yards, effectively avoiding what could have been a sack. Denver gave ample opportunity to showcase his abilities, taking charge for the next four drives.
Nix finished the game with a team-high 125 passing yards, a touchdown, and 17 rushing yards, outshining Stidham's 37 yards and one interception. Wilson, who took over in the third quarter, also had a strong showing, completing 10 of 13 passes for 117 yards, but it was Nix who left the most lasting impression.
Former NFL quarterback and current analyst Dan Orlovsky took to social media to praise Nix's performance, quote tweeting "Obvious QB1" in response to a tweet highlighting Nix's stats from the game. With Nix leading the offense, the Broncos managed four scoring drives, including two touchdowns and two field goals.
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Following his standout performance, it was reported that Nix would be the starter for Denver's next preseason game against the Green Bay Packers on August 18. Upon being selected as the No. 12 overall pick, Nix expressed his determination to earn the starting role through competition rather than expecting it to be handed to him.
He acknowledged the challenges ahead, stating: "There's a lot in the future that's going to need to be done — a lot of work to be done, a lot of growing and a lot of getting better. I just appreciate the value that they [saw] in me."
"I know everybody has to compete," he continued. "I know everyone has to go to work. We haven't had any conversations thus far, just draft prep and obviously the recent draft pick [call]. Other than that, I just can't wait to get around the locker room, can't wait to get around the guys, meeting my new teammates, meeting new coaches and get to work."
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