Denver turns to Jarrett Stidham as a championship run suddenly grows more uncertain
Denver’s path through the NFL playoffs changed sharply after quarterback Bo Nix suffered a season-ending ankle injury late in an overtime win against Buffalo, forcing the Broncos to rework their plans days before the AFC Championship Game.
Nix fractured a bone in his right ankle on the second-to-last play of overtime, an injury that will require surgery and sideline him for the remainder of the postseason. The Broncos now will start Jarrett Stidham next Sunday, with Sam Ehlinger serving as the backup.
The loss removes one of the postseason’s most productive quarterbacks and immediately alters the balance of power in the AFC. Nix had guided Denver through a resilient playoff run, combining efficient passing with mobility that stressed defenses and extended drives. His ability to manage late-game situations played a central role in Denver reaching the conference title game.
Stidham now steps into one of the league’s most demanding situations: starting an AFC Championship Game with limited preparation time and far fewer live reps than the quarterback he replaces. Denver’s offense is expected to narrow, leaning more heavily on the running game and shorter passing concepts to limit risk and protect possession.
For the Broncos, the challenge extends beyond scheme. Nix served as the emotional and strategic centerpiece of the offense. His absence places added pressure on Denver’s defense to control tempo and field position, while special teams and game management become more critical than ever.
Across the league, the injury reshapes postseason expectations. Opponents preparing for Denver no longer face a dynamic dual-threat quarterback, changing defensive priorities and reducing the margin for error on the other sideline. What once appeared to be a balanced AFC title matchup now carries a clear question mark at the game’s most important position.
Denver advanced with a win, but the cost was steep. With Nix sidelined, the Broncos’ playoff hopes hinge on adaptation, discipline, and whether they can withstand the pressure of January football without the quarterback who carried them there.
