When the Denver Broncos named rookie Bo Nix as their starting quarterback on Wednesday, it marked the culmination of a remarkable journey filled with both adversity and triumph. Nix's path to the NFL, and now to the starting role in Denver, is a testament to his resilience and growth as a player.
A Rocky Start and a Bold Transfer
The journey began with a three-year stint as Auburn’s starting quarterback, where he showed flashes of brilliance but also struggled with inconsistency. Nix’s 2021 season was cut short due to injury, and he finished 11th in the SEC in passer rating. NFL Draft buzz was minimal, and doubts about his professional potential were prevalent around college football circles.
Everything changed when Oregon head coach Dan Lanning hired Kenny Dillingham as offensive coordinator. Just three days after Dillingham's appointment, Nix announced his commitment to Oregon, a move that would alter the trajectory of his career.
Revival in Oregon
Nix’s time at Oregon was nothing short of spectacular. In 2022, he racked up 3,593 passing yards and 29 touchdowns, proving that he could not just compete but excel at a higher level. Under the tutelage of Dillingham and later offensive coordinator Will Stein, Nix’s performance reached new heights. In 2023, he accumulated an impressive 4,508 yards and 45 touchdowns, setting several program records in completion percentage, completions, passing yards, and passing touchdowns.
This revival at Oregon put Nix back on the NFL radar. The success story of Nix at Oregon also highlights a broader trend in college football: the impact of key transfers. Four of the top twelve quarterbacks in the 2024 NFL Draft had transferred after the 2021 season, including Caleb Williams, who moved from Oklahoma to USC, and Jayden Daniels, who transferred from Arizona State to LSU.
From College Glory to NFL Promise
Despite the stiff competition, Nix’s on-field prowess couldn’t be overlooked. His remarkable college performance earned him the opportunity to step up to the next level. For a while, it seemed the Denver Broncos might stay with Jarret Stidham, a fourth-round draft pick in 2019 who had struggled to secure a stable position in the NFL. However, the coaching staff saw something special in Nix—perhaps a spark reminiscent of the young talent that first captivated scouts before his injury-plagued seasons at Auburn.
Now, Bo Nix is set to lead the Broncos as their starting quarterback. His adaptable style and proven ability to recover from setbacks make him a compelling choice to command the huddle. The Broncos are betting on Nix's journey of continuous improvement, hoping his story at Oregon is just the prologue to a successful NFL career.