The Denver Broncos’ hopes for a Super Bowl this season largely depend on quarterback Bo Nix improving his performance, and signs indicate he may be ready to take that leap. After showing promise in his rookie year, Nix could be the key figure in transforming the Broncos into a serious title contender in 2025.
Progress Demonstrated During Rookie Season and Training Camp
Bo Nix finished third in the 2024 Offensive Rookie of the Year voting, trailing only Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers and Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels. His teammate, Broncos cornerback Patrick Surtain II, has expressed high expectations for Nix’s development next year.
This year he’s going to make a lot of noise,
Surtain said at training camp.
We’re looking forward to seeing what he does and his success moving forward.
—Patrick Surtain II, Broncos cornerback
Nix’s rookie season started slowly, as he failed to throw a touchdown pass in his first three starts. However, he finished strong with 29 touchdown passes over 17 regular-season games, ranking sixth in the league for total passing touchdowns. This steady progression helped boost his confidence, which teammates hope will positively impact the entire squad.
The way he looked in the spring, the way he came back, his confidence is going to radiate through the whole team,
said Broncos left tackle Mike McGlinchey.
He’s going to be a great player for us this year.
—Mike McGlinchey, Broncos left tackle
Challenges Remain Despite Upward Momentum
Despite these encouraging signs, skepticism about Nix’s ability to lead the offense persists. ESPN analyst Ben Solak questioned whether Nix can consistently carry the team, pointing to his limited big-play impact during his first season in the league. Nix ranked near the bottom among eligible quarterbacks, 32nd out of 36, in completed air yards per pass attempt—a measure of how far the ball travels through the air after leaving the line of scrimmage.
Denver’s head coach Sean Payton may address this by allowing Nix to attempt more deep passes in 2025. Nix revealed his arm strength late in 2024, notably launching a 51-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Marvin Mims Jr. in a Week 17 loss against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Broncos Poised for a Strong Season if Nix Continues to Improve
The Broncos have not won a playoff game since 2015 and suffered a decisive 31-7 defeat to the Buffalo Bills in the AFC wild-card round last season. However, the roster is regarded as one of the league’s best, with ESPN analysts Seth Walder, Mike Clay, and Aaron Schatz ranking Denver sixth overall.
With solid team talent in place, the critical factor remains Bo Nix’s consistent growth. If he can build on his rookie strides and capitalize on his increasing confidence and arm strength, the Broncos’ Super Bowl ambitions could move from hopeful to credible.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does Bo Nix believe in God?
A. “For me, it’s quite simple,” Nix shared. “My faith means a lot to me. I’ve always focused on my beliefs. I trust that God has a plan for my life.”