UPDATE: In a shocking turn of events, Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix broke his right ankle late in overtime during the team’s 33-30 victory over the Buffalo Bills in the divisional round of the playoffs on Saturday. This injury will force Nix to undergo surgery, sidelining him for the remainder of the playoffs.
Head Coach Sean Payton confirmed the devastating news shortly after the game, revealing that Jarrett Stidham will take the reins as the starting quarterback for the upcoming AFC Championship Game next weekend. “Stiddy’s ready,” Payton stated firmly, emphasizing the team’s readiness to tackle this unexpected challenge.
The injury occurred during a quarterback keeper where Nix was tackled by safety Cole Bishop, resulting in a 2-yard loss. Despite limping off the field, Nix managed to throw a crucial deep pass to Marvin Mims Jr., drawing a 30-yard pass interference penalty and setting the Broncos up in field-goal range. He then centered the ball for Wil Lutz’s game-ending 23-yard field goal.
Payton announced that Nix’s surgery is scheduled for Tuesday in Birmingham, Alabama. “He’s such a strong, faith-based guy,” Payton noted, reflecting on Nix’s resilience and positive attitude during this challenging time. The coach shared a light moment, acknowledging Nix’s prior injuries in high school and at Auburn, joking, “If I had known that, I wouldn’t have drafted you.”
Nix, the 12th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, made history by tying Russell Wilson’s NFL record with two dozen victories in his first two seasons. Saturday’s playoff win marked his first postseason victory. Despite the setback, Payton expressed confidence in the team, stating, “He’s a tough cookie… this team all year has lost key players and will rise up for the next challenge.”
The Broncos, who previously fell to the Bills last year but reclaimed their position as the AFC’s top seed this season, now face a pivotal moment as they prepare for the championship game without their starting quarterback. Fans and analysts alike are left wondering how Stidham will perform in this crucial role.
As the Broncos gear up for the AFC Championship, all eyes will be on Stidham to see if he can lead the team to victory in the absence of their injured star. The urgency of the situation heightens as the team looks to advance further in the playoffs.
This developing story underscores the unpredictability of playoff football, and fans are left to rally behind the team as they face new challenges ahead.
