Despite leading the Denver Broncos to their first playoff appearance since 2015, quarterback Bo Nix revealed on Monday that he played through significant pain, according to ESPN. Nix disclosed he sustained transverse process fractures in his back during the season, a challenge he overcame to secure the Broncos’ postseason berth.
The injury occurred during Denver’s November 24 win over the Las Vegas Raiders. Nix was sacked by Raiders defensive end Tyree Wilson in the second quarter, twisting his back awkwardly as he hit the ground. The transverse process, a bony projection on either side of the vertebrae, can cause substantial pain when fractured.
“I wasn’t going to miss the first Monday night game,” Nix told 9News, recounting how he returned the following week to defeat the Cleveland Browns in a Monday night matchup. “I got treatment on it, and then we were fortunate enough to have an off week the next week, and it kind of went away after that. That moment was annoying, but we all play with something.”
Despite the injury, Nix threw two second-half touchdowns in the game against the Raiders and continued to lead the Broncos with grit and determination. His performance this season was impressive, with 3,775 passing yards, 29 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. Nix also contributed on the ground, showcasing his dual-threat abilities.
In Sunday’s wild-card loss to the Buffalo Bills, Nix completed 13-of-22 passes for 144 yards and a touchdown. He also led the team in rushing, adding 43 yards on four carries. Though the Broncos fell 31-7, the game marked a significant step forward for the franchise.
Nix, selected 12th overall in last year’s draft, demonstrated his resilience and leadership throughout the season. The Broncos’ playoff appearance, despite the early exit, is a testament to the team’s growth and Nix’s ability to overcome adversity.
While the fractures had healed by the postseason, Nix’s willingness to play through the pain underscores the challenges faced by NFL athletes. “That moment was annoying, but we all play with something,” Nix said, reflecting on the toughness required to succeed at the professional level.
As the Broncos look to build on this season’s success, Nix’s courage and determination will remain a cornerstone of their journey back to contention.