"This guy was a pro before he became a pro": Dan Lanning has eye-catching praise for NFL's rookie sensation

Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix is making waves in his rookie season, and his former college coach, Dan Lanning, couldn’t be prouder. Nix earned recognition as the AFC Offensive Player of the Week for Week 11, capping off another standout performance.

Reflecting on Nix’s journey, On Thursday Night Football (TNF), Lanning shared glowing praise.

“Bo was unbelievable for us,” Lanning said. “I always felt like when I took the field as a coach, I knew I had another coach out there on the field for us."

“He mature beyond his years,” he added. “When he got here, the notes that he took, how meticulous he was really in the classroom. This guy was a pro really before he became a pro … we were lucky enough to get to celebrate all those things.”

Nix, who tied for the lead in touchdown passes in the nation with the Oregon Ducks in 2023, was selected by the Broncos in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft. He has seamlessly transitioned to the pro level, becoming Denver’s starting quarterback and a key factor in their playoff push.

Dan Lanning has been at the heart of the Ducks’ incredible season

Dan Lanning has been at the heart of the Ducks’ incredible season and is now a finalist for the prestigious Dodd Trophy, awarded to the nation’s top college football coach. It’s been nothing short of a historic year for the No. 1 Oregon Ducks.

With a flawless 13-0 record, a Big Ten title, and the top seed in the College Football Playoff, this team is making waves both on and off the field.

As the nation’s only undefeated football team, Oregon stands as a top contender for the national championship.