The Denver Broncos saw significant progress in their 2024 season, largely due to the outstanding performance of rookie quarterback Bo Nix. Despite initial challenges, Nix’s development throughout the year helped Denver secure the No. 7 seed in the AFC playoffs. Although they suffered a heavy defeat to the Buffalo Bills in their Wild Card game, the Broncos appear poised for growth going into 2025.
Nix’s promising play increased his confidence within the Broncos offense, displaying the potential many anticipated. Star offensive tackle Garett Bolles has expressed strong admiration for Nix’s talents and holds high expectations for the quarterback’s future contribution to the team.
Garett Bolles Praises Bo Nix’s Exceptional Talent
Garett Bolles, Denver’s veteran left tackle and former second-team All-Pro, discussed his views on Bo Nix during an appearance on The Insiders on NFL Network. Bolles described Nix as a “freak of nature,” emphasizing the quarterback’s impressive skill set and work ethic. Selected 12th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, Nix was a controversial pick at the time, but head coach Sean Payton stood firmly behind his choice, expecting Nix to lead the team after past struggles with Russell Wilson at the position.
In his first professional season, Nix started all 17 games, accumulating 3,775 passing yards and 29 touchdowns, along with 430 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns. These strong statistics demonstrated why the Broncos invested heavily in him and reshaped the team’s prospects.
Bolles, a key figure in Denver’s offensive line since 2017, has witnessed firsthand the shift from a struggling squad to a serious AFC West contender. His confidence in Nix’s growth is clear as he highlighted the quarterback’s leadership qualities and talent. Bolles said on The Insiders:
“I’m so grateful I get to protect him and being his blindside protector, giving him all the time in the world.” —Garett Bolles, Broncos offensive tackle
“He’s a freak of nature. You look at the numbers that he put up last year, between him and [Jayden] Daniels, those were the two young quarterbacks in the league that’s gonna be very successful, and I have one of them behind me. His demeanor, his composure, his work ethic, just always wanting to get better, his arm talent and just the way he sees it, he has swag, man, he really does.” —Garett Bolles, Broncos offensive tackle
Expectations for Bo Nix and the Broncos in the 2025 Season
While Nix’s rookie campaign was impressive, the 2025 season presents an opportunity for further growth. With an improved offensive lineup and Bolles continuing to protect his blindside, the Broncos have a chance to challenge strong divisional rivals such as the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers.
Though it is wise to maintain cautious optimism, Nix’s performance last year makes restraining expectations a difficult task. The Broncos’ future looks promising, as Nix’s continued progress could transform Denver into a top contender in the AFC, and potentially one of the league’s elite teams for many years.