Who is qb for broncos

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: As of the 2024 NFL season, the Denver Broncos' starting quarterback is Bo Nix, who was selected 12th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. Nix took over the role after the team released veteran Russell Wilson in March 2024, following two seasons where Wilson posted a 11-19 record as starter. The Broncos also have Jarrett Stidham and Zach Wilson as backup options on their current roster.

Key Facts

Bo Nix was drafted 12th overall by the Broncos in the 2024 NFL Draft
Russell Wilson was released by the Broncos in March 2024 after two seasons
Wilson had a 11-19 record as Broncos starter from 2022-2023
The Broncos traded for Zach Wilson in July 2024
Jarrett Stidham started the final two games of the 2023 season

Overview

The Denver Broncos quarterback position has undergone significant transformation in recent years, moving from the stability of Peyton Manning's tenure to a period of transition and rebuilding. Following Manning's retirement after Super Bowl 50 in 2016, the Broncos cycled through multiple quarterbacks including Trevor Siemian, Case Keenum, Joe Flacco, and Drew Lock before making a blockbuster trade for Russell Wilson in 2022. This trade, which sent multiple draft picks and players to Seattle, was intended to return the Broncos to championship contention but ultimately fell short of expectations.

The 2024 season represents a new era for the Broncos with rookie Bo Nix taking over as the franchise's future at quarterback. Head coach Sean Payton, entering his second season with Denver, has emphasized building around a young quarterback who fits his offensive system. The Broncos' quarterback room now features a mix of youth and experience, with Nix being supported by veteran backups who provide depth and competition during this transitional period for the franchise.

How It Works

The Broncos' quarterback situation reflects a strategic shift toward developing a young franchise quarterback within Sean Payton's offensive system.

Draft Investment: The Broncos selected Bo Nix with the 12th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, their highest quarterback selection since Jay Cutler in 2006. Nix set NCAA records with 61 career starts and 17,034 career passing yards at Auburn and Oregon, demonstrating the durability and experience the Broncos valued in their evaluation process.
System Fit: Sean Payton's offense emphasizes quick decision-making, accuracy on short-to-intermediate throws, and mobility within the pocket—all strengths that Nix displayed during his college career. Nix completed 77.4% of his passes in his final season at Oregon, the highest single-season completion percentage in FBS history, showing the precision required in Payton's system.
Financial Strategy: By releasing Russell Wilson in March 2024, the Broncos absorbed an $85 million dead cap hit but created long-term salary cap flexibility. Nix's rookie contract provides four years of cost-controlled quarterback play, allowing the Broncos to build a more complete roster around their young signal-caller.
Development Plan: The Broncos have structured their quarterback room to support Nix's development, with Jarrett Stidham providing familiarity with Payton's system and Zach Wilson offering recent high-draft-pick experience. This approach allows Nix to learn while competing, with the organization committed to his growth as their long-term solution.

Key Comparisons

Feature	Bo Nix (2024 Starter)	Russell Wilson (2022-2023)
Draft Position	12th overall (2024)	75th overall (2012)
Age When Acquired	24 years old	33 years old
Contract Status	Rookie deal (4 years, $18.6M)	Veteran extension (5 years, $245M)
College Experience	61 starts (Auburn/Oregon)	50 starts (Wisconsin/NC State)
2023 Completion %	77.4% (Oregon)	66.4% (Broncos)
Career TD:INT Ratio	113:26 (College)	334:106 (NFL through 2023)

Why It Matters

Franchise Direction: The transition to Bo Nix represents the Broncos' most significant quarterback reset since drafting Jay Cutler in 2006. After cycling through 12 different starting quarterbacks in the eight seasons following Peyton Manning's retirement, the organization has committed to developing a young quarterback who can grow with Sean Payton's system over multiple seasons.
Financial Flexibility: Moving from Russell Wilson's $245 million contract to Nix's rookie deal provides crucial salary cap relief for roster building. The Broncos project to have over $100 million in cap space in 2025, allowing them to address other roster needs while their quarterback plays on an affordable contract.
Offensive Identity: Nix's skill set aligns with Sean Payton's offensive philosophy of quick passes, play-action, and controlled aggression. During his final college season, Nix averaged 9.6 yards per attempt while maintaining exceptional accuracy, suggesting he can execute Payton's system effectively from day one.

The Broncos' quarterback transition represents both risk and opportunity as the franchise seeks to return to playoff contention. While rookie quarterbacks typically face growing pains—first-year starters have won just 45% of their starts over the past decade—Nix's unprecedented college experience (61 starts) provides a foundation for early success. The organization's commitment to surrounding him with offensive weapons, including receivers Courtland Sutton and Marvin Mims Jr., plus a rebuilt offensive line, suggests confidence in his ability to develop quickly. Looking forward, the 2024 season will test whether this quarterback reset can end the Broncos' eight-year playoff drought and establish sustainable success in the competitive AFC West.