Bo Nix, entering his second season with the Denver Broncos, remains a focal point as the team prepares for its 2025 campaign. Following a rookie year that helped push the Broncos into the playoffs, fans are eager to see if Nix will take the field during Saturday’s preseason game against the San Francisco 49ers.
Denver’s quarterback is active and healthy, with no injury concerns reported heading into the matchup. Broncos coach Sean Payton confirmed that starting players, including Nix, are expected to participate in the preseason opener, signaling the organization’s intent to closely evaluate key contributors early in the exhibition schedule.
Coach Sean Payton outlines playing strategy for preseason game
Payton described the game plan as consisting of multiple phases, with starters seeing action during the initial phase before rotating with other players.
“There is a lot of competition for spots,”
Payton said.
“We discussed the other night how we’re going to play the game. Phase 1, Phase 2, Phase 3. Our starters will play. There’ll be a point at which we get into Phase 2.”
He also explained how rotations will occur throughout the phases, ensuring many players receive opportunities for evaluation.
“When you’re in these phases, there’s still a rotation. If you’re looking at three interior defensive linemen in Phase 2, there might be four or five ready to play in that Phase 2. Then the same way, when you get into Phase 3. We will rotate that around. So it’s a body of work thing in evaluating it all.”
Although Nix will get playing time, the coaching staff plans to limit his reps to ensure he remains prepared and in peak condition for the regular season.
Upcoming Broncos preseason matchups and broadcast details
After facing the 49ers at Levi’s Stadium in San Francisco, the Broncos will hold two additional preseason games against the Arizona Cardinals on August 16 and the New Orleans Saints on August 23. These games offer further opportunities for players to showcase their skills before the regular season begins.
The Broncos vs. 49ers preseason game will start at 8:30 p.m. ET on Saturday. Fans in the San Francisco market can watch the game on KPIX, while viewers in Denver can tune into 9NEWS to catch the live broadcast.