The Denver Broncos celebrated a thrilling 33-30 overtime victory against the Buffalo Bills in the Divisional Round of the 2025-26 Playoffs, but the joy was tempered by a significant injury to quarterback Bo Nix. While Nix”s performance led the Broncos past last year”s MVP, Bills quarterback Josh Allen, the team”s aspirations for a Super Bowl run now face serious uncertainty.
The matchup was fiercely competitive and highlighted by Nix”s ability to manage the ball more effectively than Allen. Although the Broncos did throw an interception, Nix”s three touchdown passes and 279 passing yards outweighed that mistake. In contrast, Allen struggled with two interceptions and multiple lost fumbles.
According to head coach Sean Payton, Nix sustained his injury during a seemingly harmless quarterback run toward the end of overtime. Following that drive, the Broncos successfully kicked a field goal, which turned out to be the game”s final points. The team later confirmed via social media that Nix would miss the remainder of the season due to a fractured ankle.
One concerning statistic from the game was that Nix had more rushing attempts than both of the team”s running backs combined. This raises questions about the long-term sustainability of such a heavy workload for a young quarterback.
The implications of Nix”s injury are profound, forcing a shift in the Broncos” quarterback lineup. Jarrett Stidham will step up to the starting role, while Sam Ehlinger will serve as the backup. Stidham, who has only started four games since being drafted in 2019, last played for the Broncos on January 7, 2024.
The Broncos are now set to face the winner of the upcoming matchup between the Houston Texans and the New England Patriots. Regardless of the opponent, Stidham will have a formidable challenge ahead. The Texans boast the best defense in the NFL, while the Patriots feature an MVP candidate in quarterback Drake Maye.
This injury to Nix casts a long shadow over the Broncos” playoff hopes, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering how the team will adapt as they continue their pursuit of a championship.
