One Analyst Says Bo Nix Is the Only Thing Standing Between the Broncos and a Super Bowl

Denver just wrapped up minicamp and there’s a clear feeling around the team: they’re close. Real close. But close doesn’t get you a ring, and after last season’s AFC title game loss to the Patriots, the Broncos know that better than anyone.

Bo Nix is recovering from an ankle injury that kept him out of that game entirely. The injury cost him a shot at playing in the biggest game of his career, but he’s on track for training camp. And if you ask ESPN’s Seth Walder, Nix is the single biggest variable between the Broncos being good and being Super Bowl favorites.

Walder laid it out bluntly. He said if Nix can raise his game a bit, the whole league should be worried. Nix’s numbers last year were solid: 3,931 yards, 25 touchdowns, 11 interceptions. He helped get the Broncos to 14-3 and an AFC West title. But Walder points out that Nix ranked just 15th in QBR, despite playing behind a great offensive line and having Sean Payton calling plays.

“Assuming he is fully recovered from the ankle injury that cost him the chance to play in the AFC Championship Game (he’s now on track to be ready for training camp), the Broncos can get more out of their quarterback to push them over the top,” Walder wrote. “Despite being behind an excellent offensive line last season and with an elite playcaller in Sean Payton, Nix still ranked only 15th in QBR.”

Then there’s the new weapon. Denver traded for Jaylen Waddle this offseason, giving Nix a proven deep threat to go with Courtland Sutton and the rest of that offense. The defense is already expected to do its part. So really, the pieces are there.

Walder again: “Now, Denver has added wide receiver Jaylen Waddle. The defense should do its part. If Nix can up his game a bit, the Broncos would quickly become one of the title favorites.”

Nobody’s doubting that Nix is a good quarterback. But the gap between good and great in the NFL is the difference between hosting a Super Bowl parade and watching one from your couch. Nix was one game short last year. If he comes back healthy and takes that next step, the Broncos might not be one game short again.