Broncos WR explains how rookie QB Bo Nix stood out in preseason debut

Denver Broncos rookie Bo Nix looked sharp in his preseason debut on Sunday and displayed an imperative trait starting quarterbacks need.

"[He] had a of poise, a lot of control," Broncos wide receiver Courtland Sutton said of Nix following a 34-30 win over the Indianapolis Colts, via Aric DiLalla of the team website. "The moment wasn't too big for him. The moments are only going to get bigger. The preseason games don't count, but come Week 1, whoever they decide to put out there as our starter, they're going to have to handle that situation the best they possibly can."

Against Indianapolis, Nix entered the game after QB Jarrett Stidham started. He led the Broncos on four scoring drives, completing 15-of-21 passes for 125 yards, one touchdown and a solid 102.3 passer rating.

The 12th overall pick of the 2024 NFL Draft also showcased his wheels, rushing for 17 yards on three carries and extending multiple plays.

"I felt very calm and relaxed back there. It's just a game," Nix said after his debut. "The [Colts] were still in Cover 3 and quarters and man. It's the same defense. You've just got to figure out which one they're in and then execute the play that's called."

Nix, 24, started in 61 games in five seasons at Auburn and Oregon, so it's not surprising he seems more composed than the typical rookie QB.

Broncos head coach Sean Payton hasn't named Nix as the starting QB. However, Payton recently announced Nix is slated to start in the Broncos' second preseason game against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, giving him another opportunity to earn the job.

Nix's preseason performance probably helped him build a bigger lead in the QB competition. He didn't look overwhelmed, showing why he should start in Denver's regular-season opener against the Seattle Seahawks.