Broncos fans itching to see rookie sensation Bo Nix on-field? Hold that thought. Head coach Sean Payton just benched Nix for the preseason finale against the Cardinals, giving Jarrett Stidham the start and letting Zach Wilson take over in the second quarter.

In a recent tweet dropped by ESPN senior NFL insider Adam Schefter, Bo Nix won’t be playing for Denver vs. Cardinals. “I’d like to see (Stidham) get 8 to 12 plays, and then we’ll get a lot of work with Zach (beginning) at some point in that first or early second quarter,” said Broncos HC Payton.

This decision comes right after coach Payton named Nix as Denver’s QB—a bold move since the franchise hasn’t had a rookie starter since ’83. But with the 24-year-old impressing in camp and preseason, Broncos’ HC ain’t taking any chances before Week 1. “Why risk the future face of the franchise in a game that doesn’t count?” seems to be the unspoken mantra. Some fans might be bummed not to see Nix out there, but it’s the right move. Keeping their QB1 safe before the season opener against Seattle on Sept. 8 is a no-brainer, especially since the Auburn standout has already locked in the starting spot over the vets. 

As for the backup QB situation, that’s still up in the air. Denver’s HC’s plan for the Cardinals’ to give Stidham 8 to 12 snaps to prove his worth before Zach Wilson takes over. Payton told reporters, indicating that the battle for the backup spot is far from over. With Stidham a vested veteran and Wilson subject to the waiver wire if cut, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Over in Arizona, the Cardinals are rolling with Clayton Tune at QB. Kyler Murray and the rest of the starters are chilling on the sidelines for this one.

The preseason finale game will be more than just a preseason matchup—it could very well decide the pecking order behind Nix as the Broncos gear up for what they hope will be a playoff-bound season. At the end of the day, it ain’t just about who’s suiting up for the preseason finale. But why are the Broncos are all in on Bo Nix as their starting QB?

Why Bo Nix is Denver’s starting QB?

From the moment Denver drafted Nix at No. 12, coach Payton had a solid game plan. The former Heisman Trophy-winner wasn’t just any rookie QB—he was their perfect fit. Maturity, composure, accuracy—Nix checked all the boxes. With a resume boasting 61 college starts between Auburn and Oregon, he showed he’s a seasoned veteran even before hitting the field.

Payton saw something special in the 24-year-old. “I would say that probably early into the process, he stood out in a lot of areas,” Broncos’ HC alluded, praising Nix’s accuracy, decision-making, and ability to avoid sacks. And let’s not forget the arm strength. “I would say his arm strength—we saw it at the pro day, but even in the private workout—it was very good. He’s super smart,” Payton added.

On-field, the William V. Campbell Trophy champ’s already proven his worth. In two preseason games, he led Denver to scores on six of seven drives, showcasing the poise and football smarts that won over the HC and the Broncos staff. “He’s super, super efficient,” asserted safety P.J. Locke, noting Nix’s ability to manipulate defenders with his eyes—a skill not typical for most rookies.

For coach Payton, it wasn’t just about Bo Nix’s draft status. The rookie earned his spot, outperforming veteran competitors and showing he’s ready to lead. As the Broncos prepare for the regular season, it’s clear why they’ve chosen Nix to steer the ship. He’s shown he’s more than just potential—he’s the real deal!

Next up, catch the exclusive scoop with Chris Gronkowski on the Dual Threat Show with BG12! You won’t want to miss this.