Bo Nix Breaks Ankle in Broncos’ Playoff Win, Surgery Scheduled

UPDATE: Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix suffered a broken right ankle late in overtime during the Broncos’ thrilling 33-30 playoff victory over the Buffalo Bills on January 13, 2024. Coach Sean Payton confirmed that Nix will undergo surgery, sidelining him for the remainder of the playoffs.

This shocking injury comes just as the Broncos celebrate their biggest win in a decade. Backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham is set to take the helm for the upcoming AFC Championship game next weekend. Payton expressed confidence in Stidham, stating, “Stiddy’s ready,” as he addressed reporters after the game.

Nix sustained the injury during a quarterback keeper where he lost 2 yards and was tackled by safety Cole Bishop. Although he appeared to be limping afterward, there were no immediate signs of a severe injury. Remarkably, on the next play, Nix threw a deep pass to Marvin Mims Jr., drawing a crucial 30-yard pass-interference penalty that positioned the Broncos within field-goal range.

Nix then took a knee to center the ball for Wil Lutz‘s game-winning 23-yard field goal. Following the game, Payton revealed that Nix will have surgery on Tuesday in Birmingham, Alabama. “He’s such a strong, faith-based guy,” Payton said, adding that Nix reassured teammates about his recovery, referencing previous ankle injuries he had in high school and at Auburn.

“He knows that God’s got a plan for him,” Payton noted, emphasizing Nix’s resilience.

Nix, the 12th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, has tied Russell Wilson‘s NFL record with two dozen victories in his first two seasons. Saturday’s playoff win marked his first appearance in the postseason, following a season where he led the Broncos to the AFC’s top seed.

Despite the injury setback, Coach Payton remains optimistic about the team’s ability to rise to the challenge. “He’s a tough cookie,” Payton remarked. “This team all year has lost key players and will rise up for the next challenge.”

As the Broncos prepare for the AFC Championship, all eyes will be on Stidham and how he leads the team forward in the absence of their starting quarterback. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this developing story unfolds in the coming weeks.