Nix Becomes Broncos’ First Rookie Captain Since 1967

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — The Denver Broncos are on the verge of a significant milestone with rookie quarterback Bo Nix set to make his first regular-season start this Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. This marks a historic moment, as Nix will be the first rookie quarterback to start a season opener for the Broncos since the legendary John Elway in 1983.

Nix has already begun breaking records, having been voted as one of the team’s captains for the current season. This designation makes him the first Broncos rookie to take on this leadership role since Hall of Famer Floyd Little in 1967. Little was affectionately known as “the Franchise” during his illustrious career with the team.

Head coach Sean Payton expressed his admiration for Nix’s achievement, stating, “(It’s) something you earn. It’s unusual for a rookie to be named a captain… (It’s a) first for me, just say rookie period in fairness to the process… It’s a credit to him and I think his teammates felt that he belonged in that position.”

In addition to Nix, the other team captains for the season include wide receiver Courtland Sutton, guard Quinn Meinerz, cornerback Pat Surtain II, linebacker Alex Singleton, and kicker Wil Lutz.

The Broncos drafted Nix with the No. 12 pick in this past April’s draft, making him the sixth quarterback selected in a record-breaking opening round. Nix earned the starting role after outperforming his competitors, Jarrett Stidham and Zach Wilson, during the offseason and training camp.

Payton made the announcement regarding Nix’s starting position just days before the Broncos’ preseason finale against the Arizona Cardinals, illustrating the high confidence placed in the young quarterback.

“It’s a privilege, an honor to be with this group,” Nix remarked. “I don’t take it lightly. I know it’s a big deal; it hasn’t happened often, but I don’t take it for granted. I’ve got to come to work every single day and just prove you can be the captain.”

Teammate Courtland Sutton noted the enthusiasm emanating from the new captains during a team dinner, saying it was “exciting to see the genuine joy” on their faces when the announcement was made.

“He’s very mature; he’s had a lot of games to put under his belt from college,” Sutton commented on Nix’s readiness. “I think he’s going to continue to put the work in; he’s working his butt off. He comes to work every day with the demeanor of getting better. He’s got the ‘C’ on his chest, and he carries himself like that, he carries himself like a leader.”

Diving into his performance, Nix showcased his potential during the preseason. He completed 23 of 30 passing attempts, achieving an impressive 76.7% completion rate while totaling 205 yards and two touchdowns in two preseason games. Remarkably, he was not sacked or intercepted during those appearances, leading the Broncos to score on six of the seven possessions he managed.

As the Broncos look ahead, all eyes will be on Nix as he steps onto the field for his season opener. The anticipation surrounding his debut reflects the hope and excitement from both fans and teammates alike, eager to witness the next chapter in Broncos history.