UPDATE: Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix has suffered a fractured right ankle during a thrilling overtime playoff victory against the Buffalo Bills on January 13, 2024. The injury occurred late in the game and will require surgery, sidelining Nix for the remainder of the playoffs. Head coach Sean Payton confirmed the news during a postgame press conference, marking a devastating blow to the team following their 33-30 win, their biggest triumph in a decade.
Nix sustained the injury on a two-yard keeper, tackled by safety Cole Bishop. Despite appearing to be in pain, he managed to throw a deep pass to Marvin Mims Jr. that drew a crucial 30-yard pass interference penalty, setting the stage for a game-winning field goal by Wil Lutz.
Payton stated that Nix will undergo surgery on Tuesday in Birmingham, Alabama. “He’s such a strong, faith-based guy,” Payton shared, recounting how Nix remained optimistic about his recovery. “He knows that God’s got a plan for him.” The coach added humorously that he was unaware of Nix’s previous ankle injuries during his high school and college careers.
With Nix out, backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham is set to step up as the starter for the upcoming AFC Championship Game. “Stiddy’s ready,” Payton assured fans, emphasizing the team’s resilience despite ongoing injuries this season.
Nix, the 12th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, had already tied an NFL record with two dozen victories in his first two seasons. Saturday’s win was also his first playoff victory, a significant milestone for the young quarterback. The Broncos, having suffered a loss to the Bills last year, rebounded impressively under Nix’s leadership, achieving the AFC’s top seed this season.
As the team prepares for a challenging road ahead without their star quarterback, the focus remains on Stidham and the rest of the squad to rise to the occasion. The emotional impact of losing their starting QB is palpable, but the Broncos are determined to fight on. Fans will be watching closely as the Broncos aim for a Super Bowl berth with a new game plan in place.
Stay tuned for updates as details unfold regarding Nix’s surgery and the Broncos’ preparations for the AFC Championship Game.
