Bo Nix Returns for Broncos, Throws Touchdown in Preseason Game

In Denver, Broncos quarterback Bo Nix made a smooth return to the lineup for Friday’s preseason game against the Green Bay Packers, after an eight‑month absence.

Nix said he felt excited, not nervous, noting that he had undergone two offseason surgeries to repair a fractured right ankle and expected only a few plays.

In 14 passing attempts, Nix completed 6 of 9 for 76 yards and a touchdown, though the Broncos lost 33-13 to the Packers.

Nix also saw his new wide receiver, Jaylen Waddle, make his first catch after being acquired from the Miami Dolphins, a 35‑yard reception that converted a third down on Denver’s opening drive.

Nix went 3 of 4 on the opening series, finishing with a 21‑yard touchdown pass to running back RJ Harvey.

Nix said, “You can’t fully describe Waddle’s talent; you just have to get out there and play. When you throw him the ball, you realize he’s a truly great player,” adding that he adds a lot to the team.

Regarding Harvey’s touchdown, Nix said, “The catch he made wasn’t easy… he’s a special player.”

Nix returned for Denver’s second possession, a nine‑play drive that concluded with a 53‑yard field goal by Wil Lutz. Earlier, Coach Sean Payton said he expected Nix to take about 14 snaps, which he did before Lutz took the field.

Nix’s participation ended after the field goal, as Jarrett Stidham took over at quarterback and Sam Ehlinger completed the game in the fourth quarter.

It was also Nix’s first game action since Coach Payton promoted Davis Webb to offensive coordinator and play‑caller.

Nix said, “It felt just like practice—smooth, entering and exiting the huddle, putting us in a good position. Nothing extraordinary, just as I expected, and I’m eager to see how the season unfolds.”

Nix fractured his right ankle late in the Broncos’ January divisional‑round win over the Buffalo Bills, causing him to miss the AFC Championship Game. He underwent two surgeries, one in April to address bone spurs.

He was kept out of most offseason drills, though he did throw in a limited capacity during the mandatory minicamp in June.

He has completed all of his scheduled snaps in training camp.

Nix added, “I approached it as just another practice rep, treating it as exactly where I left off last season. The additional clean‑up surgery helped put me back to square one, and I feel as good as I have in a long time.”

Ehlinger said, “It was awesome to see Nix back. He performed at a postseason level, didn’t miss a beat, and is clearly feeling great.”

Payton said Nix would play in the Broncos’ preseason finale next Friday against the Minnesota Vikings, describing his effort as solid, though he was less complimentary about the rest of the team.

Payton said, “It wasn’t good. We committed too many negative plays and penalties. The Packers won many battles, and there isn’t an area where we outplayed them, frankly.”

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