In a surprising turn of events, Denver Broncos coach Sean Payton has made a decision that he had kept under wraps just a few days ago. On Wednesday, Payton announced that rookie Bo Nix will be the team’s starting quarterback, setting the stage for an exciting start to the season.
“We’re not in a hurry to arrive at those types of decisions. We want to see it,” Payton explained. “And I think it’s important, relative to the team, that we handle it that way. He’s been outstanding.”
Nix himself was caught off guard by the news, as he was only informed of the decision right before Wednesday’s practice. “It was really cool,” Nix shared. “It’s not every day to get that news. But obviously as a room we’ve been working hard and putting a lot of good things on film, putting a lot of good things on the practice field.”
Replacing Russell Wilson, who was released after two seasons, Nix will be stepping into a significant role for the Broncos. Wilson’s departure left an $85 million dead-cap hit for Denver, making Nix the team’s first rookie quarterback to start in Week 1 since John Elway did so back in 1983.
Furthermore, Nix is part of a historic draft class that saw six quarterbacks selected in the first round. Alongside him, fellow rookies Caleb Williams of the Chicago Bears and Jayden Daniels of the Washington Commanders are also set to start in Week 1, adding to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the upcoming NFL season.
