In what may go down as one of the most controversial NFL Draft decisions in recent history, the Denver Broncos selected quarterback Bo Nix with the 12th overall pick. Nix, the Oregon standout, was unexpectedly picked far earlier than many experts projected. With several teams not even giving him a first-round grade, Denver’s aggressive move left fans and analysts stunned.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, had the Broncos passed on Nix, they likely would have selected edge rusher Laiatu Latu out of UCLA and Washington, who went to the Indianapolis Colts just three picks later.
Latu’s concerning medical history, specifically his neck injury, didn’t stop the Colts from grabbing him as the first defensive player drafted. His strong potential left teams like the Atlanta Falcons interested, but ultimately hesitant.
A Pivotal Draft Misstep By Denver Broncos?
Critics are quick to compare Nix’s selection to past questionable quarterback picks, with Christian Ponder’s 2011 drafting at 12th overall by the Minnesota Vikings serving as a notable example. Though Ponder was a standout college quarterback at Florida State, he struggled to transition to the NFL, often relying heavily on his running back, Adrian Peterson.
While Nix has the potential to last longer in the league, he’s entering a challenging situation in Denver. Mastering head coach Sean Payton’s offensive scheme will be critical. However, Nix often struggled in the SEC in front of intense crowds, and now he faces a similarly demanding environment in the NFL.
The Denver Broncos announced the passing of former defensive coordinator Joe Collier, who died Monday night at his home in Littleton, Colo., at the age of 91. Collier was the leader and architect of Denver’s “Orange Crush” defense, spent 20 seasons on the Broncos’ coaching staff… pic.twitter.com/52Ccp6IOFt
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 7, 2024
The Shadow of Laiatu Latu and Chop Robinson
Latu, despite the injury concerns, was widely regarded as a strong defensive prospect. His position as a versatile edge rusher could have filled a significant gap for Denver. Some, like the Miami Dolphins, took a different route and chose Chop Robinson from Penn State, further emphasizing the high-risk nature of this year’s defensive selections.
Ultimately, though, the Broncos settled on Nix. Whether this move will prove fruitful or regrettable remains to be seen. If he adapts to Payton’s play-calling and finds his footing quickly, Nix could silence critics. Yet, many fans remain skeptical, questioning whether Denver could have better utilized their 12th overall pick.
Sean Payton’s Gamble
Nix is fortunate to have a strong offensive-minded head coach in Sean Payton, but drawing comparisons to the Los Angeles Rams’ Sean McVay might be ambitious. The Broncos are far removed from being a Super Bowl contender. Still, if Nix can handle the pressure of facing AFC West powerhouses like the Kansas City Chiefs and Las Vegas Raiders, Payton’s gamble may pay off.
Source: Fansided
