Bo Nix returned from a broken ankle to lead the Broncos in a 33-13 preseason loss to the Packers on August 22, 2026, at Empower Field at Mile High, with both teams using the game to evaluate players ahead of the regular season.
Bo Nix’s return from a broken ankle marked a pivotal moment in the Denver Broncos’ preseason schedule, as the quarterback took the field for the first time since breaking his right ankle against Buffalo in the playoffs seven months ago. The 21-yard touchdown pass to R.J. Harvey and a 53-yard field goal by Wil Lutz highlighted Nix’s performance in the Broncos’ 33-13 loss to the Green Bay Packers on Friday night, though the game ultimately underscored the team’s ongoing adjustment period after working with new play-caller Davis Webb for the first time in a game. “It felt great,” Nix said after his first live action since the playoffs, adding, Just like any typical year, going out for the first drive, there’s going to be some different things that you can grow from.
Nix’s Return and the Broncos’ Adjustments
Nix’s performance was tempered by the Broncos’ struggles to integrate new personnel, particularly with new speedster Jaylen Waddle. The pair connected for a 35-yard gain early in the game, but the chemistry remained a work in progress as Nix missed most of the offseason and Waddle missed a week of training camp. We’ve got a lot of work to do,
Waddle said, acknowledging the challenges of syncing with a quarterback who missed most of the offseason. Nix completed 6 of 9 passes for 76 yards and the touchdown, but his second series ended with a field goal after Pierre Strong Jr. returned the ensuing kickoff 68 yards, setting up Trey Smack’s first of four field goals, a 51-yarder that tied it at 10.
The Broncos’ offensive line and receiving corps faced scrutiny as well. Nix’s first series was disrupted when cornerback Riley Moss recovered Christian Watson’s fumble on the second play of the game, but a review determined Watson’s knee was down just as the Pat Surtain II was ripping the ball out of Watson’s arms. He’s definitely one of the best corners in the game,
Jordan Love said about Surtain. Moss, who’s had a terrific training camp and had an interception in Denver’s 27-7 win over Atlanta in the Broncos’ preseason opener, left the game with a rib injury later in that drive and didn’t return. Despite the setbacks, Nix emphasized his focus on regaining game rhythm. I think the strongest emotion was when I got out there it was just like riding a bike; nothing really changed,
he said, describing his mental approach.
Packers Dominate on All Phases
The Packers showcased their depth and preparation, with Jordan Love driving Green Bay on a 12-play, 63-yard touchdown drive in his only series, which he capped with an 11-yard touchdown throw to Lloyd for a 7-0 lead. The Broncos’ defense struggled to contain Green Bay’s offense, which added Smack and Smack kicked field goals of 59 and 44 yards sandwiched around Mark Perry’s interception of Broncos backup Jarrett Stidham’s pass to send Green Bay into halftime with a 23-10 lead. By halftime, the Packers held a 23-10 lead, with Former University of Colorado receiver Will Sheppard’s toe-dragging 2-yard touchdown catch from Tyrod Taylor giving Green Bay a 17-10 lead. I can’t think of one area we outplayed them,
Broncos coach Sean Payton lamented, acknowledging his team’s defensive shortcomings.
Defensive struggles extended to the Broncos’ secondary, which allowed multiple big plays. Christian Watson’s fumble recovery by Moss was overturned on review, and the Packers capitalized on the mistake to extend their lead. The Broncos’ offense, meanwhile, relied heavily on backup quarterback Sam Ehlinger, who praised Nix’s performance. It was right back to post-season form, really,
Ehlinger said. Didn’t miss a beat. Really happy for him. He’s in a great spot.
Coaches’ Priorities and Future Implications
Both teams used the game to evaluate players ahead of the regular season. Green Bay head coach Matt LaFleur has said that he intends to play his healthy starters for two drives, and that those starting units will sit in the preseason finale next week.
The game also served as a reminder of the challenges ahead for a team rebuilding after a 14-win regular season in 2025. It’s coming along,
Waddle said of the offense, though the path to consistency remains unclear.
What’s Next for the Broncos and Packers?
The Broncos’ next preseason game against the Vikings will test their ability to refine their offense, while the Packers aim to solidify their roster ahead of the regular season.
The Packers’ 9-7-1 finish in 2025 and the Broncos’ AFC Championship loss underscore the stakes for 2026.
