Former Oregon QB Bo Nix Faces Uncertain Future With Broncos

In January, former Oregon quarterback Bo Nix led the Denver Broncos to a thrilling win over Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills in the Divisional Round, but suffered an ankle injury that kept him out of the AFC Championship Game.

By all accounts, the 2025 campaign was a successful one for the 2024 first-round pick. There were reasons for the Broncos to be optimistic that Nix was their franchise quarterback, something that Denver could make official at the end of the regular season when Nix becomes eligible for a contract extension.

Six games into the regular season, there are now questions about Nix's future with the Broncos. Amid a play-calling change from offensive coordinator Davis Webb to head coach Sean Payton, Nix has not had the same success that he enjoyed last season. He's completed 60.3% of his passes for 1,049 yards, six touchdowns, and three interceptions.

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler suggested Nix has reached his ceiling, which is a capable starter in the league but not an elite quarterback. The Broncos could plan to go in a new direction at quarterback if his play doesn't improve before the end of the season. 

Dan Graziano noted that Nix has not been able to run the way he had in the past before the ankle injury, which is leading to more flaws in his operation of the offense.

Nix was a standout with the Ducks before entering the league, leading the NCAA in touchdown passes (45) for the 2023 season. Part of what made Nix great was his ability to extend plays. If he doesn't or cannot trust his ankle, which has a long injury history, the Broncos might not want to pay him the near $60 million young quarterbacks signing new contracts will be asking for in the next offseason.

Not all of the offensive problems in Denver should be put at the feet of Nix. The running game has been a problem. The Broncos are averaging just 3.4 yards per rush. But Denver invested heavily this offseason in giving Nix upgrades at receiver, and that hasn't paid off enough yet in the passing game.

Overall, the Broncos are 4-2 and still in a good position to make the playoffs. With Payton back calling the plays, there is time for Nix to look more like the player he was last season, when he threw for 3,931 yards, 25 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions.