Broncos make feelings known on Bo Nix as first-year QB makes playoffs after Russell Wilson's failed stint

The Denver Broncos' bold offseason move to release Russell Wilson, absorbing a record $53 million dead cap hit, has paid off. Rookie quarterback Bo Nix selected 12th overall as the sixth QB in the 2024 draft led the team to their first playoff appearance since Peyton Manning's Super Bowl 50 victory.

Nix's regular-season finale showcased his development. He threw for a career-high 321 yards with four touchdowns in a 38–0 victory over Kansas City. The win clinched Denver's playoff spot, though the Chiefs rested most starters.

The rookie's accomplishments stand out among first-year quarterbacks. He leads all rookies with 376 completions, 3,775 passing yards and 29 touchdowns. His dual-threat capabilities added 430 rushing yards and four ground scores.

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Coach Sean Payton and Nix's teammates expressed complete faith in the young quarterback ahead of Sunday's wild-card matchup against the Buffalo Bills. Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Payton highlighted Nix's extensive big-game experience.

"He's seasoned, and he's been in big moments, and you know what, he's going to play in bigger games," Payton said. "He's played in a lot of big games, and honestly, last week for him, for many guys, was like a playoff game."

The coach's confidence stems from Nix's record-setting 61 college starts between Auburn and Oregon.

Courtland Sutton, who also is having a breakout season alongside the rookie quarterback, echoed the coach's words.

"This season, that's all I've got for you, his resume speaks for himself," he said about Nix.

A tale of two quarterbacks: Russell Wilson vs Bo Nix

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Comparing their first 15 starts under Payton reveals stark differences. Bo Nix passed for 3,235 yards with 27 total touchdowns and 11 interceptions. Wilson threw for 3,070 yards with 29 total touchdowns and eight picks. The crucial difference? Nix took just 22 sacks and lost two fumbles, while Wilson suffered 45 sacks and lost 10 fumbles.

Nix's development earned him multiple accolades. He won AFC Offensive Player of the Week and FedEx Air Player of the Week for Week 18. His 89.7% completion rate against Kansas City set a franchise record. He made NFL history with multiple games of 300+ yards, four touchdowns, no turnovers, and a passer rating above 140.

The No. 7 Broncos (10-7) face the No. 2 Bills (13-4) on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET.