The Denver Broncos' quarterback, Bo Nix, is facing a lengthy recovery period after undergoing surgery on his broken right ankle. Nix, who is out for the AFC Championship game against the New England Patriots, is expected to be sidelined for 12 weeks, according to sources. While the surgery itself isn't considered the most challenging part, the recovery process is a significant hurdle. Nix won't be able to put any weight on his ankle for at least four weeks, and he'll miss a total of 12 weeks before he can return to action.
This development eliminates any hope of a miraculous return for the Super Bowl, even if the Broncos advance. During the AFC Championship game, Nix will be in a box, off his feet, as per medical advice. Despite this setback, Nix is expected to be largely recovered in time for the Broncos' offseason program.
Nix suffered the injury late in overtime of the divisional round game against the Buffalo Bills. Broncos coach Sean Payton immediately named Jarrett Stidham as the starting quarterback for the AFC Championship Game. This is the third time Nix has broken his ankle playing football, but doctors have assured him that the injury is not a long-term concern.
In the short term, the Broncos will rely on Stidham, who was the first free agent Payton signed after taking the head coaching job in Denver. While Stidham makes his first start of the season, Nix will miss the AFC Championship Game and a highly anticipated showdown with his good friend and quarterback draft classmate, Drake Maye. The two quarterbacks have been training together during the offseason, but Nix's injury will keep him on the sidelines for now.
