While Jayden Daniels of the Washington Commanders gathered most of the spotlight with his outstanding Offensive Rookie of the Year campaign in 2024, Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix demonstrated significant promise during his debut NFL season. Broncos head coach Sean Payton expressed strong confidence in Nix’s growth as the team aims to return to the playoffs for a consecutive year.
Following training camp on August 4, Payton highlighted how Bo Nix has advanced considerably entering his second season. The coach emphasized that Nix has taken on a bigger leadership role on the field, communicating more effectively with teammates in the huddle and exhibiting greater control of the offense.
High Expectations for Nix and the Broncos in 2025
Payton was clear about the potential he sees for the Broncos with Bo Nix as their quarterback. He shared that among the teams he has coached, he believes this Broncos squad has a legitimate shot at winning the Super Bowl in the near future. According to sports reporter Charles Robinson, Payton views this team as one of his best contenders.
The Broncos hope Nix will play a crucial role in making a significant playoff run this season. The coach remarked,
“He’s going to be one of the top four or five quarterbacks in the league the next two years,”
—Sean Payton, Broncos Head Coach
“That’s what we’re seeing right now. He doesn’t take sacks. He’s got exceptional arm strength.”
—Sean Payton, Broncos Head Coach
Last season, Denver finished with a 10-7 record, and the front office has bolstered the roster by acquiring running back J.K. Dobbins through free agency. Additionally, they strengthened their rushing attack by drafting RJ Harvey in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Bo Nix’s Impressive Rookie Year and College Background
Denver selected Bo Nix with the 12th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, quickly identifying him as a franchise quarterback. In his rookie campaign, Nix threw for 3,775 yards and 29 touchdowns, setting a new franchise record for rookie quarterback wins. Despite a challenging start, he ultimately guided the Broncos to their first playoff appearance since 2015.
Bo Nix’s collegiate career spanned five years, including playing for both Auburn and Oregon. His transfer to Oregon in 2022 marked a turning point, where under coach Dan Lanning’s mentorship, Nix became a Heisman Trophy finalist in 2023 and nearly led the Ducks to the College Football Playoff.
Despite his college achievements, some doubted how Nix would adjust to the professional level. However, his rookie season proved many skeptics wrong, as he finished third in the Offensive Rookie of the Year voting. Furthermore, he earned recognition as the 64th best player on the NFL Top 100 Players list heading into the 2025 season.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 NFL Season
With the 2025 NFL season approaching, Bo Nix has the platform to demonstrate continuous improvement and solidify his position as a top-tier quarterback. The Broncos are set to play their first preseason game on August 9 against the San Francisco 49ers, featuring many predicted starters. The regular season opener will follow on September 7 against the Tennessee Titans.
Bo Nix’s development and leadership will be critical as Denver pursues deeper playoff success, and coach Sean Payton’s belief in his quarterback’s abilities underscores the team’s optimism about the future. The Broncos’ efforts to build a balanced and potent roster further support their aim of competing at the highest level in 2025 and beyond.