Bo Nix has marked a significant milestone by becoming only the second quarterback for the Denver Broncos since Peyton Manning to feature in the NFL’s Top 100 player list. Despite this achievement, Nix remains ambitious, driven to improve his standing and lead the Broncos to greater success. His impressive rookie season has drawn attention across the league, showcasing his potential to become a franchise cornerstone.
Head coach Sean Payton showed early confidence in Nix after the NFL Combine, selecting him twelfth overall last year. Nix outperformed competitors Zach Wilson and Jarrett Stidham during offseason camp to secure the starting quarterback role. His dynamic playstyle stood out particularly in 2024, where he amassed 904 yards on passes while on the run, the highest in the league that year and the fourth most for any quarterback since 2016, a list otherwise dominated by Patrick Mahomes.
The Broncos clinched a 10-7 record, returning to the playoffs for the first time since Peyton Manning’s Super Bowl-winning 2015 season. However, their postseason run was halted by a powerful Buffalo Bills squad, who scored over 30 points in the wild card round to eliminate Denver.
Recently, the NFL acknowledged Nix’s impact by ranking him 64th on the Top 100 list. Though proud, Nix views this as only the starting point of his ascent in the league.
Bo Nix’s Drive to Reach the Very Top
Bo Nix’s determination to improve is clear and unrelenting. He shared,
“I am motivated; I want to continue to get higher. Not even for the ranking. It doesn’t really matter what you’re ranked; it’s just an internal standard that I have that I want to be the best in the world.”
—Bo Nix, NFL QB
His mindset reflects a broader team attitude prioritizing results above reputation or rankings. To support Nix’s growth and prevent a sophomore slump, Sean Payton strengthened the squad by signing tight end Evan Engram and drafting running back R.J. Harvey. These strategic additions aim to bolster Denver’s offensive options and complement Nix’s evolving skill set.
Engram, who has experience with the Giants and Jaguars, praised the Broncos environment, noting,
“The camaraderie we have, the laughs that we have. It’s an incredible locker room with a lot of great leaders.”
—Evan Engram, Tight End
Sports analyst Nick Kosmider highlighted Payton’s vision in assembling the team assets around Nix. Kosmider pointed to Engram and Harvey as potential catalysts for unlocking Nix’s full potential, especially on deep passes, which Nix has room to improve.
According to Kosmider,
“[Bo Nix] ranked 27th among 36 qualified QBs in EPA [expected points added] per drop back on throws of 25 or more air yards… Engram and Harvey will get defenses out of some of their two-high looks and open up clearer deep-ball shots. If Nix can improve his efficiency with those shots, the Broncos can start forcing defenses into increasingly difficult decisions.”
Challenges Await in a Grueling AFC West Division
Despite the optimism surrounding Nix and the Broncos, they must face fierce competition within one of the NFL’s toughest divisions. The Denver Broncos share the AFC West with the Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Chargers, and Las Vegas Raiders, all strong contenders.
The Chiefs reached last season’s Super Bowl, even though Patrick Mahomes was not performing at his peak, maintaining their powerhouse reputation. The Chargers, under new head coach Jim Harbaugh, made the playoffs in Harbaugh’s first season and are projected to advance further in 2025. Meanwhile, the Raiders have emerged as a wildcard threat, with veteran coach Pete Carroll taking over, Geno Smith at quarterback, and Heisman Trophy runner-up Ashton Jeanty set to bolster their offense as the newly drafted running back.
BetMGM’s recent betting odds place the Chiefs as -150 favorites to win the AFC West, closely followed by the Chargers at +333 and the Broncos at +350, underscoring the challenging road ahead for Denver.
The Broncos will start their 2025 NFL campaign at home against the AFC South’s Tennessee Titans, providing a crucial opportunity for Bo Nix and the team to set the tone for the season.
What Lies Ahead for Bo Nix and the Broncos
Bo Nix’s entrance into the NFL Top 100 as a rookie signals an encouraging start to his professional career, but his journey is far from over. With the added support from key teammates and the strategic guidance of Sean Payton, Nix aims for steady improvement and higher rankings moving forward. Navigating the demanding AFC West division will test the Broncos’ resolve and adaptability, but overcoming these challenges could establish the team as serious playoff contenders.
As Broncos fans await the new season, expectations are high for both Nix’s development and the team’s overall performance. How he adapts to the competition and refines his game under pressure will be critical to Denver’s pursuit of postseason success and perhaps, another championship run.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does Bo Nix believe in God?
A. Nix mentions that her faith holds great importance to her. She has consistently been guided by her beliefs, trusting that God has a specific plan for her life.
Q. Is Bo Nix elite?
A. Among the 29 people who qualified, Nix placed seventh with a touchdown rate of 36.6%. He was ahead of top quarterbacks such as Patrick Mahomes and Joe Burrow.
Q. Why is Bo Nix not a top prospect?
A. Since Nix has been a starter for five years, he may have less room to improve. However, his performance at Oregon could be misleading. The team’s offense often made things easier for him with quick plays. In the future, he’ll need to hold the ball longer to let plays unfold, which might be challenging.
Q. Does Bo Nix have a strong arm?
A. Bo Nix’s powerful throws impressed Talanoa Hufanga. However, his impressive first season didn’t silence all critics who question his arm strength.