Sun Jan 25 18:40:00 UTC 2026: # Bo Nix Out for AFC Championship; Stidham to Start
The Story:
Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix will miss the AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots due to a broken right ankle sustained in the divisional round victory over the Buffalo Bills. Sources confirm that Nix is expected to be sidelined for 12 weeks following surgery. While a miraculous Super Bowl return was deemed unlikely, Nix is expected to recover in time for the Broncos’ offseason program. Jarrett Stidham has been named the starting quarterback in Nix’s absence.
Key Points:
- Bo Nix suffered a broken right ankle in the Broncos’ divisional round win against the Buffalo Bills.
- He will be sidelined for 12 weeks following surgery.
- Jarrett Stidham will start at quarterback for the Broncos in the AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots.
- Doctors have stated that the injury is “nothing to be concerned about long term.”
- Nix and Patriots QB Drake Maye are friends and training partners, adding an interesting layer to the game Nix will now miss.
Key Takeaways:
- The Broncos’ Super Bowl hopes, while already slim, have taken a significant hit with Bo Nix‘s injury.
- Jarrett Stidham now has a major opportunity to prove himself, as this is a critical playoff game.
- The Broncos’ coaching staff and fanbase are publicly expressing confidence in Stidham.
- The relatively optimistic long-term outlook for Nix’s injury is a positive development for the team’s future.
- The timing of the injury puts Nix’s return at just before the beginning of offseason training, putting some pressure on his training schedule.
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