Nix Ranks Among NFL's Most Efficient QBs as Broncos Pass Protection Improves

The Denver Broncos are getting more efficient quarterback play from Bo Nix, and improved pass protection appears to be playing an important role.

Nix ranks fourth among NFL quarterbacks in expected points added (EPA) per dropback over the past three weeks, according to Nick Kosmider of The Athletic.

His average of 0.22 EPA per dropback represents a significant improvement from his early-season struggles, when opposing defenses repeatedly disrupted Denver's passing attack.

One potential explanation is the reduced pressure Nix has faced.

Kosmider reported that Nix was hit an average of four times per game during Weeks 1 through 6.

That number has dropped to just two hits per game over the past three contests, while his overall pressure rate has also declined substantially.

The improvement is particularly notable because Nix previously struggled against blitz pressure during the opening weeks.

Through three games, he faced pressure on 43% of his dropbacks and ranked last among qualified quarterbacks in EPA per dropback when pressured.

Denver's recent results suggest the offense has made progress addressing those problems.

The Broncos have won three consecutive games against Arizona, Kansas City and Carolina, improving to 7-2 and entering their bye week atop the AFC West.

Nix has completed 60 of 98 passes for 681 yards, five touchdowns and one interception during that stretch.

He has also been sacked just three times, once in each game.

Against Kansas City on November 1, Nix completed 20 of 32 passes for 222 yards and two touchdowns in a 28-24 victory.

He followed that performance with 237 passing yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 26-21 win over Carolina.

The recent protection numbers reinforce Denver's broader success at limiting sacks since Nix entered the league.

However, the Broncos still have areas to improve.

Nix has dealt with passes being batted down at the line of scrimmage, and coach Sean Payton has acknowledged that protection and technique issues contributed to those problems.

Still, the latest efficiency numbers provide an encouraging counterpoint to the criticism Nix faced earlier this season.

With the Broncos entering their bye week, the challenge will be sustaining that improvement when they return to face the Las Vegas Raiders on November 22.