Many were surprised when Bo Nix crossed the stage as the 12th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. A quarterback with a lengthy collegiate career but not necessarily the most impressive résumé in the class, he was considered a risky selection by the Denver Broncos.
One year later, the doubters of that choice have dissipated.
Garett Bolles Talks About Bo Nix’s Impact on Broncos Culture, Leadership, and Locker Room Identity
Not only did Nix earn the starting job in Denver, but he also transformed the team’s culture. For the first time in years, the Broncos had a quarterback who was composed, self-assured, and clearly a leader. He led Denver to its first postseason appearance in nearly a decade while throwing for 3,775 yards and 29 touchdowns, looking like anything but a rookie on the field.
But ask his teammates, and they’ll tell you Nix’s numbers only tell part of the story. For veteran left tackle Garett Bolles, it’s what Nix brought into the locker room and huddle that truly made the difference.
“Bo’s a tremendous football player,” Bolles said this week on The Insiders. “I’m so grateful I get to protect him… He’s a freak of nature. You look at the numbers he put up last year, between him and [Jayden] Daniels, those two young quarterbacks are going to be really successful. His demeanor, his composure, his work ethic… he’s always trying to get better. His arm, how he sees the field, and the dude’s got swag, man. He really does.”
Garett Bolles sits down with @MikeGarafolo on “The Insiders” to discuss many things Broncos, including “freak of nature” Bo Nix https://t.co/xDOzfLCZv6 pic.twitter.com/JVFVGrOk2t
— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) June 25, 2025
That swag? The entire team picked it up. Nix had the mentality of a veteran while playing with the youthful energy Denver desperately needed after years of quarterbacking instability. His ability to handle pressure, lead the offense and remain composed under stress changed the Broncos’ approach to every game.
Much of the credit also goes to head coach Sean Payton, who quickly built a scheme that highlighted Nix’s strengths: getting him on the move, allowing him to create outside the pocket, and trusting his football instincts. Nix didn’t try to take control. The team simply followed as he played his game.
Now, there is genuine hope in Denver as the Broncos prepare for the 2025 season. After a full year of experience, Nix has grown more comfortable with his weapons and has the support of a unified locker room. Bolles is not the only one who believes this is just the beginning.
What began as a controversial pick has rapidly ushered in a new era of Broncos football. And with Nix at the center of it, the Mile High City’s future looks far more promising..