As the 2025 NFL season approaches, Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix is focusing on stepping into a stronger leadership role despite a challenging start during the preseason. The former Oregon Ducks quarterback, who led Denver to the postseason as a rookie, is determined to build on last year’s progress and propel the team further in his second season.
The Broncos’ first preseason game against the San Francisco 49ers saw Nix struggle, completing 6 of 11 passes for 31 yards with one safety and no touchdowns. While the performance raised some concerns, Nix has accepted responsibility and remains committed to improvement.
Bo Nix Holds Himself Accountable for Play and Practice
NFL insider Kay Adams attended a Broncos practice, during which she spoke with Nix and wide receiver Courtland Sutton. On the Up & Adams show, Nix expressed dissatisfaction with both his recent practice and overall energy, taking full accountability for setting the tone.
“I like the narrative that we had a good practice, but I wasn’t necessarily too excited with it today,”
—Bo Nix, Quarterback
“I felt like, starting from me, I felt like the energy could have been better today. But, you know, I just got to do my job better. And, you know, until it’s perfect, it’s not done well enough.”
—Bo Nix, Quarterback
Recently named No. 64 in the NFL Top 100 Players for 2025, Nix acknowledged that while the ranking is an honor voted on by fellow players, he still sees room for growth and has higher goals to reach.
Building Continuity and Focus for the Coming Season
Heading into 2025, Denver’s offense features many returning players, including key contributors such as Courtland Sutton and a consistent offensive line, which Nix views as a crucial factor in the team’s potential success. He is enthusiastic about the group’s development and the direction the Broncos are moving.
“We’re excited to be able to learn and grow together. You know we got a good football team, but we don’t want to just be talk,”
—Bo Nix, Quarterback
“We’re gonna hear that enough. We want to go out there and actually be a good football team. So, it doesn’t happen by accident.”
—Bo Nix, Quarterback
During his rookie season, Nix threw 24 touchdowns and guided the Broncos to a playoff berth after finishing the year 10-7, highlighted by six wins in their last 10 games. Despite inconsistencies in practice, his ability to overcome challenges shows promise for the upcoming year.
Coach Sean Payton Commends Nix’s Growth as a Leader
Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton highlighted Nix’s growing leadership during training camp, emphasizing that the quarterback has embraced the responsibilities that come with his position and earned the trust of his teammates.
“The leadership skillset, I think, comes at that position, and he’s comfortable with that. And when you’re a young player, it’s just about proving yourself,”
—Sean Payton, Head Coach
“When you prove that you can play, they latch onto that, and I think it happened for him last year.”
—Sean Payton, Head Coach
Aware of his mistakes and motivated to improve, Nix has two preseason games remaining to fine-tune his performance against the Arizona Cardinals on August 16 and the New Orleans Saints on August 23 before the regular season kicks off.
Looking Ahead to the Broncos’ 2025 Regular Season Start
The Broncos will open the regular season at home on September 7 against the Tennessee Titans, with hopes that Bo Nix’s leadership will solidify and translate into on-field success. As he continues to refine his skills and build team cohesion, Nix’s role as a leader will be critical to Denver’s aspirations in 2025.