Will Bo Nix play in the AFC Championship Game? Broncos QB’s injury status
Broncos quarterback Bo Nix suffered an ankle injury in Denver’s Divisional Round win over the Buffalo Bills.
A crushing blow for the Broncos at the most crucial moment of the season. Denver will be without Bo Nix for the remainder of the playoffs after the team confirmed an ankle injury that will sideline him just ahead of next Sunday’s AFC Championship Game. Head coach Sean Payton broke the news during his post‑game press conference on Saturday, following Denver’s 33-30 Divisional Round win over the Buffalo Bills.
Who will replace Nix as the Broncos’ QB?
With Nix ruled out, Jarrett Stidham - the former New England Patriot - will step in as Denver’s starting quarterback for what is, at least for now, the most important game of the year. The veteran will be tasked with leading an offense that had finally found rhythm, balance, and creativity with Nix under center. Sam Ehlinger will serve as the backup quarterback.
It’s a massive challenge. Stidham will have to execute the game plan against a top‑tier opponent (either New England or Houston) with a Super Bowl berth on the line. Payton says he trusts Stidham’s experience, but it’s undeniable that the entire outlook shifts dramatically without the team’s starter.
"Stiddy's ready. And we'll be ready."
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) January 18, 2026
HC Sean Payton announced QB Jarrett Stidham will start the AFC Championship game in place of an injured Bo Nix. pic.twitter.com/wKX51x2DRG
A bitter ending for Nix
The timing couldn’t be worse for Nix, who had become one of Denver’s brightest storylines this season. His leadership, mobility, and ability to operate Payton’s system were central to the Broncos’ surge back into AFC Championship contention - complemented, of course, by a strong defensive effort.
Now his immediate future is on hold. Nix is set to undergo surgery on Tuesday and will focus on his recovery while watching from the sidelines as his teammates attempt to take that final step without him.
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