Broncos Nix Injury: 12-Week Recovery Timeline

Denver, January 25, 2026

Broncos QB Bo Nix Faces 12-Week Recovery After Ankle Surgery

Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix will be sidelined for approximately 12 weeks following ankle surgery, potentially impacting the team’s playoff run.

• Bo Nix is expected to miss 12 weeks after undergoing ankle surgery.
• The 25-year-old sustained the injury during Denver’s divisional-round win against Buffalo.
• Jarrett Stidham will start at quarterback for the remainder of the playoffs.
• Doctors have indicated no long-term concerns regarding Nix’s ankle.

Denver Broncos fans are bracing for news that their star quarterback, Bo Nix, will be out of action for roughly three months. Nix underwent surgery this week to address an ankle injury sustained during the team’s thrilling divisional-round victory over the Buffalo Bills, sources confirm. The expected recovery time is 12 weeks, though doctors are optimistic about a full return.

Playoff Path Complicated by Injury

The 12-week timeline means Nix won’t be able to put any weight on his ankle for at least a month, but he should be cleared to participate in the Broncos’ offseason program. This is the third time Nix has fractured an ankle during his football career, but reports indicate this break is in a different location than previous injuries, and medical professionals have assured him there are no anticipated long-term complications.

Nix, the Oregon product, had a stellar regular season, leading the Broncos to the AFC’s top seed. He started every game, throwing for 3,931 yards with 25 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. Over the last two seasons, Nix boasts a .706 winning percentage, tied for fourth-highest among quarterbacks with at least 30 games played.

Stidham Steps In

Head coach Sean Payton swiftly announced that Jarrett Stidham would take the reins for the remainder of the playoffs following the Broncos’ win last week. Stidham, 29, hasn’t started a game since the 2023 season, but Payton expressed confidence in his ability to lead the team.

“I’m not worried about Stiddy (Stidham) in this game,” Payton told reporters Friday. “I’m worried about everyone else and how we play. That really is the truth.”

The Broncos are set to face the New England Patriots in the AFC championship game at 3:00 p.m. ET on Sunday.

What’s the expected timeline for Bo Nix’s return? Nix is expected to be sidelined for 12 weeks after ankle surgery, with a projected return to football activities within that timeframe.