The Denver Broncos selected Oregon quarterback Bo Nix with the 12th overall pick in the NFL draft, making him the sixth and final quarterback taken in the first round. There were rumors that the Broncos wanted to trade up for a quarterback but were unsuccessful in doing so. Instead, the Minnesota Vikings traded up one spot to select Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy at No. 10. Broncos head coach Sean Payton revealed that he was trying to bait the Vikings into moving up, which ultimately led to the Vikings making the trade.
The Vikings’ decision to move up in the draft was motivated by their fear that other teams, like the Broncos, would also try to trade up for a quarterback. In their deal with the New York Jets, the Vikings traded their Nos. 11, 129, and 157 picks to secure McCarthy, a player that the Broncos were heavily linked to. Six quarterbacks were taken in the first round, including Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, Drake Maye, Michael Penix Jr., McCarthy, and Nix. Payton’s attempt to outmaneuver the Vikings in the draft was seen as a strategic move to save face after the Broncos missed out on their chance to trade up.
Sean Payton, the head coach of the Denver Broncos, has a history of rivalry with the Minnesota Vikings. Despite past tensions, Payton is focused on building a successful team with Nix as their quarterback. Nix expressed his desire to make an impact in Denver and not just be another draft pick. He aims to show his improvements on the field and help the team win games, highlighting his dedication to bringing success to the Broncos. Nix brings a wealth of experience from his college career, having played for three seasons at Auburn and two seasons at Oregon, where he led the Ducks to a 12-2 record in his final season.
The 60-year-old head coach is determined to make the most of Nix’s talent and potential in Denver. Payton’s strategic moves and decisions during the draft reflect his commitment to building a competitive team that can contend in the league. Nix’s arrival in Denver marks a new chapter for the Broncos, with high hopes for the young quarterback to lead the team to victory. The Broncos are confident in Nix’s abilities and are looking forward to seeing him thrive in their organization as they work towards a successful season.
