Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix’s preseason performance against the San Francisco 49ers has fallen short of early expectations, lowering the hype around his development as a second-year <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL player. Nix struggled in his first preseason game, completing six of 11 passes for just 31 yards and surrendering a two-point safety before being pulled after just over a quarter of play.
Fans and media had predicted Nix to build on his promising rookie season — which included leading Denver to a postseason berth for the first time in eight years — but his uneven start this preseason has raised concerns about his consistency and confidence.
Jarrett Stidham’s Strong Backup Performance Highlights Contrast
Following Nix’s early exit, Broncos backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham took over and delivered an impressive outing, completing 14 of 15 passes for 136 yards and throwing two touchdowns. His poised and efficient play ignited debates about the quarterback competition and drew attention to contrasting performances between the two.
The stark difference in their preseason outings has sparked discussion among analysts and former players, including ex-Broncos running back Phillip Lindsay, who openly weighed in on the situation.
Phillip Lindsay Urges Nix To Relax and Find His Rhythm
Lindsay shared his assessment on The Drive podcast, emphasizing that Nix needs to ease his approach and not force plays under pressure. He contrasted Nix’s struggles with Stidham’s composed and productive performance during training camp.
Bo Nix needs to settle down and stop forcing and pressing things,
Lindsay said.
Every single time Jarrett Stidham has stepped on that football field, he is making that right decision or he’s making an explosive play,
Lindsay added.
Why? Because his mind is not clouded. He’s going out there playing freely, making plays, having fun. Bo Nix needs to do that.
Stop getting ready for your next motivational video and just calm down,
Lindsay advised.
Bo is going to be just fine, and it was the first preseason game. But for Bo, once you’re in that rut, sometimes it’s hard to get out of it and you need a little bit of confidence and Bo needs to keep his confidence.
Stidham and Nix’s Mutual Respect and Friendship
The quarterback competition for Denver’s starting role was intense in Nix’s rookie year, but ultimately, he secured the position while Stidham accepted a backup role. Despite the rivalry, both remain close friends who support each other’s growth on and off the field.
Bo Nix and I obviously have an incredible relationship,
Stidham commented.
I mean, he’s one of my closest friends and being able to be with him and help him out as much as I possibly can, that’s what I’m here to do. Not only him, but the rest of the guys on offense. And this is a lot of us. This is our third year in this system together. We’re just trying to keep pushing guys to be better and keep pushing him to continue to excel and lead the team.
Both quarterbacks share a history dating back to college, with Stidham having played for Auburn just before Nix arrived. Their bond goes beyond professional rivalry, extending to mentorship and mutual encouragement as they navigate challenges in the NFL.
Bo Nix’s Journey So Far and What Lies Ahead
Nix entered the NFL as the 12th overall pick in the 2024 draft after productive collegiate careers at Auburn and Oregon, highlighted by leading the Ducks to the Pac-12 Championship and earning third place in Heisman Trophy voting. His rookie season was marked by immediate success, helping the Broncos reach the playoffs and becoming a finalist for Offensive Rookie of the Year.
Despite the rough start to his preseason this year, Nix’s foundation and support system remain strong as he works to regain momentum. His early challenges this training camp have sparked conversations about the potential for a sophomore slump, yet voices like Lindsay’s express optimism that Nix can regain confidence and freedom in his play.
The Broncos and their quarterback will now focus on overcoming early hurdles and preparing for the regular season, where Nix’s true progress will be tested and his development continues to be a key focal point for fans and analysts alike.