The Denver Broncos are navigating a pivotal moment in their season as rookie quarterback Bo Nix deals with a back injury, raising questions about his availability for their Week 13 Monday Night Football clash with the Cleveland Browns. No one associated with the Broncos — whether it’s coaches, players, fans, or ownership — wants to entertain the possibility of turning to backup quarterbacks Jarrett Stidham or Zach Wilson. Historically, teams forced to rely on backups in critical situations often face steep challenges, making the latest injury report a cause for concern.
Nix, who was listed as a limited participant in Thursday’s practice, sustained the injury during Denver’s 29-19 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 12. The rookie quarterback was seen using a heating pad on his lower back in the fourth quarter after throwing his second touchdown pass to wide receiver Courtland Sutton. According to Sports Illustrated’s Bri Aramanthus, Nix’s condition will be closely monitored leading up to the game. If he can push through the injury and secure a win against Cleveland, the Broncos will benefit from a much-needed bye in Week 14.
Despite his current setback, Nix has been instrumental in the Broncos’ recent resurgence. The No. 12 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft has led Denver to back-to-back wins, positioning the team at 7-5 and currently occupying the seventh and final playoff spot in the AFC. This marks a significant step forward for a franchise that hasn’t seen postseason action since winning Super Bowl 50 in 2015 during Peyton Manning’s farewell season.
Nix, the sixth and final quarterback selected in the 2024 first round, signed a four-year, $18.6 million contract with Denver. Initially regarded as a mid-tier option among rookie quarterbacks, he has quickly proven himself to be one of the class’s brightest stars. With 2024 first overall pick Caleb Williams struggling to meet expectations and other rookie quarterbacks facing growing pains, Nix finds himself in close contention with Washington Commanders rookie Jayden Daniels for NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year honors.
The Broncos haven’t had a player win the prestigious award since running back Clinton Portis achieved the feat in 2002. Nix’s standout performances, including victories over the Atlanta Falcons and Raiders, along with a strong showing in a narrow 16-14 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 10, have garnered praise from analysts and fans alike.
A key factor in Nix’s success has been his chemistry with veteran wide receiver Courtland Sutton. Sutton, a former Pro Bowler, has become Nix’s go-to target, with the duo delivering consistently explosive performances. Against the Raiders, Sutton caught eight passes for 97 yards and two touchdowns. Over the past five games, he has averaged 93.4 receiving yards per contest and leads the team with 57 receptions for 744 yards and five touchdowns.
Pundits have taken notice of the Nix-Sutton connection. Speaking on The Bill Simmons Podcast, Simmons remarked, “The way Nix carries himself, he doesn’t carry himself like a rookie. He’s gotten better week by week and has real chemistry with Courtland Sutton. I could see them in the playoffs.”
With the Broncos fighting to solidify their playoff position, much depends on Nix’s health and ability to lead the offense. The stakes are high heading into Week 13, and Denver’s season could hinge on the resilience of their rookie quarterback and his partnership with Sutton.
