Scott Clark
Apr 26, 2024 - 06:05

Broncos select Oregon quarterback Bo Nix 12th overall pick

Broncos select former Oregon star Bo Nix with 12th overall pick in NFL draft, hoping he can be franchise QB.

The Denver Broncos made a bold move in the NFL draft by selecting former Oregon standout Bo Nix with the 12th overall pick in the first round. This marks Denver's first first-round pick since taking Pat Surtain II at No. 9 in 2021.

Nix is a seasoned quarterback with an impressive resume, having played in 61 career games and amassing 15,352 passing yards, 113 touchdowns, and 26 interceptions. A highly touted recruit, he was ranked as the top dual-threat quarterback in the 2019 class by 247sports. After three successful seasons at Auburn, Nix transferred to Oregon, where he solidified his status as a college football star, putting up 8,101 passing yards, 74 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions in just two seasons.

In 2023, Nix was a Heisman finalist, setting single-season records at Oregon for completions, passing yards, and passing touchdowns. He holds the program's all-time completion percentage record at 74.9% and joins a select group of quarterbacks in school history to be drafted in the first round. The last Duck to achieve this feat was Justin Herbert, taken sixth overall in 2020 by the Los Angeles Chargers.

The Broncos' need for a quarterback became apparent after Russell Wilson's benching and subsequent release in March. Failing to secure a veteran in free agency, Denver acquired Zach Wilson from the New York Jets, the second overall pick in 2021 who has struggled to meet expectations. With a quarterback group including Jarrett Stidham, Ben DiNucci, and Wilson, Nix has an opportunity to step in and potentially start right away. Since Peyton Manning's retirement in 2016, the Broncos have seen 13 different starting quarterbacks.

Only time will reveal whether Nix can be the answer Denver has been searching for at the quarterback position. His experience, skills, and potential make him a promising addition to the team as they look to solidify their quarterback situation for the long term.