Broncos Name Bo Nix Starting QB for 2024 Season, Marking New Era in Denver

The Denver Broncos have decided to start rookie quarterback Bo Nix as they head into the regular season. Head coach Sean Payton confirmed Nix's role as the starting quarterback for the 2024 season during a Wednesday announcement.

"Bo Nix is going to be our starter," Payton stated. He praised the entire quarterback group, which includes Jarrett Stidham and Zach Wilson, and acknowledged the difficult decisions involved in finalizing the roster.

Given Payton’s praise of Nix since he was drafted 12th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, the decision isn't surprising. Nix becomes the first rookie to start Week 1 for the Broncos since John Elway. Nix expressed excitement about the opportunity and emphasized his focus on helping the team win from the start.

Nix has impressed during the preseason, showing strong command of the offense, accuracy, and athleticism. Over two games, he led six scoring drives, completing 23 of 33 passes for 205 yards and two touchdowns without any interceptions.

While it’s only the preseason, Nix has demonstrated the qualities Payton values, such as quick decision-making and precision. With a wealth of college experience, including 61 starts and nearly 2,000 pass attempts at Auburn and Oregon, Nix appears ready for Week 1 against the Seahawks.

Teammate Patrick Surtain II also praised Nix, noting that he "knows how to win ball games." The Broncos initially rotated Nix, Stidham, and Wilson during the offseason, but Wilson fell out of contention during training camp, leaving Nix and Stidham to compete. When Stidham didn’t distinguish himself, the decision to start Nix became clear.

Payton reiterated that the decision-making process was careful and deliberate. He believes Nix has the potential to grow, with support from Stidham and Wilson, and looks forward to seeing the team's offseason decisions come to fruition.

The Nix era is set to begin on Sunday, Sept. 8, in Seattle.