CBS Sports analyst questions Bo Nix’s standing despite Broncos’ AFC Championship run

Garrett Podell of CBS Sports has identified Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix as one of the most overrated players at his position, challenging the narrative surrounding the team’s recent resurgence. The designation comes despite Nix leading the NFL in passing attempts with 612 in 2025 and guiding the Broncos to the AFC Championship Game in his second season.

Podell’s analysis highlights statistical concerns, noting that Nix failed to reach 4,000 passing yards due to an average of 6.4 yards per attempt. This figure ranked 28th among 33 qualified quarterbacks and fell between the career averages of former stars Aaron Rodgers and Kirk Cousins. The source also pointed to a high punt count of 75, placing the Broncos among the top four teams in the league for punts during the 2025 regular season.

The article contrasts Nix’s success with other franchises that struggled despite similar advantages. It notes that three of the top four teams with the most punts in 2025—the Cleveland Browns, Tennessee Titans, and Las Vegas Raiders—missed the playoffs and subsequently fired their head coaches. The Broncos, however, secured a 24-10 regular-season record under head coach Sean Payton, a stark contrast to the decade of mediocrity that followed Peyton Manning’s retirement.

Critics argue that Nix’s inconsistencies resulted in sluggish victories, citing a 20-13 win over the Kansas City Chiefs featuring third-string quarterback Chris Oladokun, and a 19-3 home win against the Los Angeles Chargers’ backups. The source suggests these performances indicated an inability to consistently drive the football down the field, a concern compounded by a broken ankle suffered in the divisional round win over the Buffalo Bills that ended the Broncos’ playoff run.

Conversely, the source argues that crediting the Broncos’ strong defensive line and offensive unit diminishes Nix’s leadership and preparation. It posits that other quarterbacks with similar defensive support failed to reach the playoffs, whereas Nix and Payton have restored the franchise’s prominence. The article concludes by speculating on the potential impact of adding wide receiver Jaylen Waddle to the offense for the 2026 season, suggesting Nix could improve further with additional talent.