Broncos Likely to Rest Nix in Preseason Finale, Coach Says
Denver Broncos coach Sean Payton indicated that quarterback Bo Nix will probably sit out Friday's preseason finale against the Minnesota Vikings, reversing an earlier plan. Nix played 15 snaps in the second preseason game, completing 6 of 9 passes for 76 yards and a touchdown, and Payton said he looked 'ready for Week 1.' The team opens the regular season against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sept. 14.
Nix's expected absence stems from a cautious approach following two offseason surgeries on the ankle he fractured during January's playoff victory over Buffalo. His brief but efficient outing against Green Bay—two scoring drives on 15 snaps—appears to have satisfied the coaching staff's evaluation needs. Payton had originally committed to playing his starter in both remaining exhibitions, but Nix's comfort level and extensive practice workload changed that calculus.
With Nix sidelined, Jarrett Stidham and Sam Ehlinger will split quarterback duties against Minnesota, though Payton declined to name a definitive backup. The team also released safety Taylor Rapp on Wednesday, citing a personal matter, with Payton suggesting a possible return. Denver opens its regular season Sept. 14 at Kansas City.
This decision could signal a broader shift in how teams manage franchise quarterbacks during the preseason, prioritizing readiness over repetition. Fans may see fewer starters in exhibition games as coaches trust practice reps over live snaps. For Denver supporters, the move builds anticipation for the Chiefs matchup while raising mild uncertainty about Nix's conditioning—though his training camp workload suggests minimal risk. The backup competition between Stidham and Ehlinger gains added significance, as their performance Friday may influence roster decisions and depth-chart clarity heading into a high-stakes opener.