Broncos Set for Critical QB Battle in Preseason Opener as Bo Nix Sits
Bo Nix will sit out Friday's preseason opener, setting up a pivotal test for Broncos backup QBs Jarrett Stidham and Sam Ehlinger.
The Denver Broncos are set to face the Atlanta Falcons in their preseason opener on Friday, but head coach Sean Payton has announced that franchise quarterback Bo Nix will not participate in the game. Payton stated that Nix will play next week, and the team is taking a cautious approach due to the ankle surgery he underwent during the offseason, which forced him to miss the AFC Championship Game the Broncos lost.
With Nix out, the spotlight is on backups Jarrett Stidham and Sam Ehlinger for the most heated and crucial position battle in camp. The Broncos are expected to have their starters play around 15 plays, and Friday's matchup against Atlanta will provide the best opportunity for Stidham and Ehlinger to vie for the backup role. Nix's absence is significant for Denver, as he led the team to a 14-3 record and the top seed in the AFC last season.
However, his injury in the divisional-round win over Buffalo ultimately led to Stidham starting in the subsequent AFC Championship Game, where he struggled. Stidham finished 17 of 31 for 133 yards, a touchdown, an interception, and a lost fumble. A repeat of that situation could be detrimental to the Broncos, making it crucial for them to resolve the backup role prior to Week 1.
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