Denver Broncos left tackle Garrett Bolles expressed that the outcome of the AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots might have been different if Bo Nix had been the quarterback instead of Jarrett Stidham. Bolles believes Nix’s presence could have altered the 10-7 loss, emphasizing the importance of having their starting quarterback on the field throughout the season and in critical moments.
Bolles commended Stidham for stepping in and doing his best after Nix’s injury but clearly highlighted that losing Nix was a major blow to the team’s chances. He described Nix as not just a leader for the offensive line but for the entire team, noting his confidence, playmaking ability, and unique vision on the field as crucial elements that the Broncos missed.
“I’m saying it would be a different outcome if we had our starting quarterback. I think it was devastating for all of us when that happened — I thought it wasn’t true. Bo took us there. He had a phenomenal year and when you lose a guy like that that’s a leader of your group, not just the O-line, but your team. His confidence level, his swagger, his ability to run and see the open field in different ways — it’s a tough piece to lose,” Bolles said on the NFL Daily podcast.
“Stiddy did everything he can. Love that dude; I’m so grateful he came in and handled the business he did, but it would be a different ball game if we had our quarterback. I’ll tell you this: If we had Bo Nix, it would be a different ballgame.”
Uncertain Future for Jarrett Stidham with the Broncos
Despite his efforts in the AFC Championship Game, Jarrett Stidham appears unlikely to remain the Broncos’ starting quarterback moving forward. The confidence gap between Nix and Stidham within the organization is significant, reflecting the team’s preference to build around Nix as their franchise leader. Since being drafted by New England in 2019, Stidham has already joined three different teams, indicating doubts about his viability as a long-term starter.
Had Stidham led the Broncos to an improbable victory and a Super Bowl berth against the Seattle Seahawks, he might have been viewed differently in league conversations, potentially as a candidate immediately sought by other teams for a starting quarterback role. Instead, Nix’s position to lead Denver’s offense remains secure, while Stidham is projected to continue in a backup capacity.
Implications of the Quarterback Situation on Broncos’ Prospects
The Broncos’ experience underscores the critical role of a dependable and dynamic quarterback in reaching championship success. Bolles’ comments reveal the frustration and intensity felt within the team after narrowly missing a return to the Super Bowl. Moving forward, the Broncos’ confidence in Bo Nix as their starting quarterback sets the stage for future seasons, while Stidham’s role appears limited unless changes occur.
This situation highlights the urgency for the Broncos to maintain stability and leadership at the quarterback position to avoid similar disappointments and to capitalize on their opportunities in upcoming campaigns.
