Key Takeaways:
– Super Bowl MVP and former New York Giants player, Phil Simms expressed his faith in the NFL readiness of Bo Nix.
– Despite Nix being 24 and Stidham ranked last in PFF rankings, coach Sean Payton has chosen Nix for the Denver Broncos.
– Simms believes Nix’s collegiate experience will help him adapt to the NFL quickly.
– A successful rookie season for Nix would analysis suggests should at least match Russell Wilson’s final season statistics.
Phil Simms Expresses Confidence in Bo Nix’s Professional Adaptability
Super Bowl MVP and Giants’ veteran, Phil Simms, recently shared his perception of Denver Broncos’ rookie, Bo Nix. He articulated his high hopes for Nix’s future in the NFL to his son Chris Simms, an NBC analyst.
During a recent episode of “Chris Simms Unbuttoned,” Simms Sr. shed light on his perceived high potential of Nix, suggesting that the Broncos’ rookie has an impressive physical build and agility. This included an assessment of his game performance, coupled with his praise for Nix’s strength in throwing despite it not being recognized as ‘elite’.
“He’s very mobile, long-legged, he’s got great size. His arm strength … is it elite? No, but he does make a lot of power throws every single game,” Simms shared.
Broncos’ Confidence in Rookie Nix
Controversy regarding Nix’s age, which is considered atypical for a newbie, was effortlessly shrugged off by coach Sean Payton and Simms alike. Payton demonstrated his confidence by electing Nix at No.12 overall, despite his non-traditional rookie age of 24. As for Simms, he echoed Payton’s sentiment, stating that the debate over Nix’s age was irrelevant.
Placing importance on experience under center, Payton saw potential in Nix, given his 61 collegiate starts. Simms also emphasized this aspect, predicting Nix would “adapt to the NFL really fast”.
National Media Skepticism and PFF Rankings
The national media exhibited less optimism about the Broncos’ quarterback situation. Trevor Sikkema from Pro Football Focus (PFF) listed the Broncos’ quarterback duo of Nix and Jarrett Stidham last in his QB rankings for the 2024 season.
“Nix’s experience and efficiency at Oregon could help him break through quickly, though his adjustment from the Ducks’ offense to NFL situations could be a challenge,” Sikkema wrote, hinting at the potential obstacles Nix might face due to the transition in offensive systems.
Expectations for Nix’s Rookie NFL Season
Though Nix’s collegiate production levels are unlikely to be replicated in his rookie season, Denver fans remain hopeful. A solid first-year performance from Nix could satisfy Broncos Country’s expectations, given the currently low bar set in Denver.
A good benchmark for Nix’s prospective performance might be former Broncos Quarterback, Russell Wilson’s final season outcomes. Wilson achieved 26 touchdowns, eight interceptions, completed 66.4% of his passes, and a total of 3,070 passing yards. Although these statistics act as an ideal model, it remains to be seen if Nix can meet these expectations.
However, Nix has an entire summer to convince Payton and prove his worth as the Broncos’ starter. The future of Nix’s NFL career presents an intriguing narrative for football enthusiasts nationwide.