The Denver Broncos designate Bo Nix as their starting quarterback for the 2024 season, marking him as the first rookie signal-caller to commence as the team's front-runner since John Elway.
"We've pretty much went through our whole process. Initially, we had discussions with our General Manager George Paton, Owner & CEO Greg Penner, and they often suggest that these things can resolve themselves, but we're not in a rush to make those decisions," Payton expressed to reporters following the team's practice on Wednesday.
"I believe it's crucial, considering the team, for us to handle it this way. He's been remarkable. There's definitely a lot of potential left to unleash. There are numerous areas where he needs to improve."
The aforementioned individual, picked at the No. 12 spot in the 2024 NFL Draft from Oregon, has showcased his talent in his initial two preseason games for the Broncos, influencing Payton's decision.
The 24-year-old has successfully completed 23 out of 30 passes, accumulating 205 yards, scoring two touchdowns, and garnering a quarterback rating of 116.7 in the preseason, while steering clear of interceptions or sacks.
He outshone veteran quarterbacks Jarrett Stidham and Zach Wilson for the Broncos' starting position.
Chasing Greatness
With this decision, he becomes the first rookie quarterback to kickstart Week 1 for the Broncos since their exceptional signal-caller, two-time Super Bowl winner John Elway, did so in 1983.
"It's going to be a memorable occasion," he reminisced about his first start. "Obviously, it's an honor to share this with such an iconic player like John Elway, but my primary focus is to give my best for the team. It doesn't matter when your first start is.
"Either you wait or you don't. You just hope to secure the first win and strive to perform at an exceptional level, allowing your team to seize every opportunity and reach its full potential. That's my primary goal, just to help our team succeed in each game."
He joined the league as one of the most seasoned rookie quarterbacks, having commandeered 61 games throughout five seasons for Oregon.
He embarks on his NFL career as a starter, facing the Seattle Seahawks on September 8.
Doubts in New England
Notably, there are still doubts swirling around who will command the starting quarterback position for the New England Patriots during Week 1.
First-time head coach Jerod Mayo is still tight-lipped regarding whether veteran Jacoby Brissett or rookie Drake Maye will lead the team.
Maye, selected third overall in this year's draft, hasn't seen much game time in the preseason but has demonstrated steady progress in his two outings.
Mayo expressed his opinion on Maye's readiness to serve as the team's starting quarterback: "Yes, one hundred percent I think he's ready to call the signals."
However, Mayo revealed that he will announce his starter after the team's final preseason game, which takes place on Sunday.
"I would say we should have a clear understanding of the quarterback situation by Monday night," he informed reporters. "Sunday night games are tough when it comes to evaluating film, especially when you're on the road. But by Monday or Tuesday, we should have a solid idea."
"As for disclosing who the starter is, well, I'll leave you guessing on that one."
The rookie's impressive performance in the preseason games has solidified his position as the starting quarterback for the Broncos, marking a cherished moment in his NFL career. The team's success now heavily relies on his ability to lead them to victory and maximize their potential in each game.
On the other hand, the New England Patriots are yet to determine their starting quarterback for Week 1, with first-time head coach Jerod Mayo closely evaluating both veteran Jacoby Brissett and rookie Drake Maye. Despite Maye's promising preseason performances, Mayo plans to announce his decision after the team's final preseason game.
