There's no more quarterback controversy in Denver, and Broncos legend Ed McCaffrey is looking forward to seeing what rookie Bo Nix can do as the No. 1 pivot under Sean Payton.
The Broncos struggled in two seasons with Russell Wilson at QB, leading to a falling out between Wilson and Payton towards the end of last season. Wilson has since moved on to the Pittsburgh Steelers while the Broncos drafted Nix 12th overall and have given the 24-year-old the keys to the offense for the upcoming campaign.
McCaffrey believes the moves were right for all involved and has observed a rejuvenation in Payton as the season opener draws nearer. McCaffrey, a three-time Super Bowl winner, thinks Nix could be the player to help the team move forward after an eight-year playoff absence.
"They haven’t played a game yet, but so far so good," McCaffrey told Betway. "Sean Payton looks like he has a renewed energy and optimism. He looks like he got his guy in Bo Nix. My son Luke got to play with Bo Nix in the Senior Bowl and he gave him rave reviews, even before he was drafted by the Broncos. He said he took command of the huddle.
"A lot of teams will have pro-style offences with West Coast vernacular, which means a lot of words and long play calls, while some quarterbacks in college have one word plays or shorter scripts. Luke said Bo had no problem whatsoever getting the plays called in the huddle, getting the team up to the line and talking with the play caller of the headset. He did a really good job and he was an incredibly accurate passer."
In addition to his play-calling and physical skillset, McCaffrey said Nix's five years of college experience will aid his transition into the professional game.
"He did have a lot of experience in college," McCaffrey said. "He wasn’t like a one-year starter and done, so he’s a little more prepared than most rookies. He’s looked phenomenal in the preseason, he earned the starting job, has a great attitude and is a leader. He’s looking really good and I think Sean Payton’s pretty happy.
"They’re in a tough division. They have Kansas City, I think the Chargers got better, the Raiders are a tough team, so just within their division they have got their work cut out for them, but the vibe is really good in Denver."
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