It’s seemed likely for some time that first-round pick Bo Nix would win Denver’s quarterback competition.
Head coach Sean Payton announced that was, in fact, the case last week — though Jarrett Stidham and Zach Wilson may both still end up on the 53-man roster.
After Sunday’s preseason finale against the Cardinals, Wilson said he was excited for Nix.
“I don’t think it was a surprise too much, obviously,” Wilson said in his press conference. “I think he’s had a great camp. I told him I’m excited for him for this opportunity. I really believe that they’re putting him in a good situation. I think Sean has done a phenomenal job and the guys that we get to hang out with, starting with [QBs coach] Davis [Webb] and then [offensive coordinator] Joe [Lombardi], and [senior offensive assistant] Pete [Carmichael], and then ‘Johnny Mo’ [pass game coordinator John Morton], you know we have a great offensive staff.
“And then Bo just continued to keep getting better. So I’m excited to see what he can do, and I think he’s ready for it.”
Wilson, who was the Jets No. 2 overall pick in 2021, was traded to the Broncos back in April. He finished the preseason 28-of-44 for 397 yards with three touchdowns and no interceptions. He also rushed for 21 yards with a TD.
While there’s a chance Wilson could be on the move again, he said he wasn’t thinking much about displaying his skillset for other teams.
“I don’t know if it’s necessarily thinking like that,” Wilson said. “You know, every time you touch the field, no matter who is watching, you want to put your absolute best on the field, and that’s for every guy in the locker room, whether it’s for this team or other teams. You don’t want to go out there and not. Like how can you be a true competitor in this league if you’re not going out there and not trying to do that?
“I’m extremely proud of all of those guys, understanding it’s the last opportunity that we’ll have this entire group together, and everyone really putting their best out there.”
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It’s been on the tip of everyone’s tongue for a while now, but it’s finally official: First-round pick Bo Nix has won Denver’s quarterback competition. In a move that feels as thrilling as a rollercoaster ride, head coach Sean Payton made the big announcement last week. However, don’t be surprised if both Jarrett Stidham and Zach Wilson also make the 53-man roster when all is said and done.
Wilson’s Excitement for Nix
After the action-packed preseason finale against the Cardinals, Wilson couldn’t hold back his excitement for Nix.
“I don’t think it was a surprise too much, obviously,” said Wilson during a lively press conference. “He’s had a stellar camp. I told him I’m pumped for him, for this golden opportunity. They’re really setting him up with a silver platter. Sean has been absolutely stellar, and our offensive brain trust is second to none, starting with QBs coach Davis Webb, offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi, senior offensive assistant Pete Carmichael, and our very own ‘Johnny Mo’ [pass game coordinator John Morton]. We have a top-notch team here.”
Wilson’s eyes lit up as he continued, “And then Bo just kept climbing that ladder, getting better every step of the way. I’m super excited to see what he does out there, and I think he’s more than ready for it.”
Wilson’s Journey: From Jets to Broncos
Zach Wilson’s journey has been a whirlwind. Taken as the Jets’ No. 2 overall pick in 2021, Wilson found himself traded to the Broncos back in April. Throughout the preseason, he’s shown he’s still got the magic touch, completing 28 of 44 passes for 397 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions. He even showcased his dual-threat ability, rushing for 21 yards and a touchdown.
However, whispers in the wind suggest Wilson might be on the move again soon. When quizzed about showcasing his skills for other teams, Wilson brushed it off with a nonchalant shrug.
“I don’t know if it’s necessarily thinking like that,” he said thoughtfully. “Every time you touch the field, no matter who’s watching, you aim to put your heart and soul out there. That’s true for every guy in the locker room, whether it’s for this team or another. Are you truly a competitor if you’re not out there giving it 110%?”
Final Preseason Thoughts
With a twinkle in his eye and a hint of nostalgia in his voice, Wilson added, “I’m extremely proud of all the guys. This was our last shot to be together as a group, and everyone really left it all on the field.”
As the Broncos head into the regular season, the anticipation is palpable. With Bo Nix at the helm and a roster brimming with talent, fans are ready to ride this rollercoaster of a season, hoping for thrills, chills, and, ultimately, triumphs.
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The Broncos’ locker room is buzzing with excitement and hope as the new season approaches. Let’s see how the story unfolds under the Mile-High sky.
