Jul 22, 2026, 5:30 AM CUT

"People in Denver love him": Analyst pushes back on Bo Nix disrespect in surprising assessment

DENVER, CO - JANUARY 17: Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix 10 passes in the second quarter against the Buffalo Bills in the AFC Divisional Round game at Empower Field at Mile High on January 17, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. Photo by Dustin Bradford/Icon Sportswire NFL, American Football Herren, USA JAN 17 AFC Divisional Round Bills at Broncos EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon132260117200

Bo Nix's early success has made him one of the NFL's most debated young quarterbacks. While some remain hesitant to place the Denver Broncos signal-caller among the league's elite, others believe the conversation is missing what matters most.

During his recent appearance on DNVR Sports, analyst Brian Baldinger argued that outside criticism overlooks the respect Nix has earned within the Broncos franchise.

"I think the people in Denver love Bo," said Brian Baldinger on DNVR Sports. "I think the coaches love him and the players love him, and that's really what matters. Now, he's been in the playoffs two years in a row. Like, there's not a lot of guys come out of college and take over a program, a losing program."

DENVER, CO - JANUARY 17: Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix 10 looks for an open receiver in the fourth quarter against the Buffalo Bills in the AFC Divisional Round game at Empower Field at Mile High on January 17, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. Photo by Dustin Bradford/Icon Sportswire NFL, American Football Herren, USA JAN 17 AFC Divisional Round Bills at Broncos EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon132260117040

Baldinger's point, shared on DNVR Sports, was less about public perception and more about leadership. He argued that the trust a quarterback earns inside the locker room carries far more weight than where he lands on offseason rankings.

Denver's turnaround helps explain why.

After finishing 8-9 in 2023, the Broncos quickly emerged as an AFC contender with Nix under center. The former No. 12 overall pick finished last season with 3,931 passing yards, 25 touchdowns, and a 14-3 record, helping Denver secure the AFC's top seed while leading the NFL with eight game-winning drives.

Despite that breakout season, Nix was ranked No. 59 on the NFL Top 100 Players list. Baldinger suggested that recognition inside the building matters far more, pointing to the belief teammates and coaches have in their quarterback as the real measure of success.

The former NFL lineman also hinted that Denver's offense could reach another level with one key addition, setting the stage for even higher expectations heading into next season.

NFL analyst points to Jaylen Waddle as an explosive weapon Bo Nix is missing

Brian Baldinger believes the wide receiver Jaylen Waddle's skills could unlock a new angle in the Broncos' passing attack.

He stressed that Waddle's ability to create explosive plays after the catch is something Denver lacked in its offense.

"Like he (Jaylen Waddle) has that ability, especially after the catch," said Baldinger on DNVR Sports. "I'd like to see what Waddle looks like in this lineup with Bo because I think that has been a missing ingredient is just explosive pass plays."

Waddle has been the NFL's elite speed threat since his debut, turning short completions into gains with his acceleration and open-field view. Pairing that type of receiver with Nix can stretch the defense vertically, which can also create easy throws.

Baldinger's comments suggest that adding Waddle will not only boost Denver's offense but also hasten Nix's growth as the starting QB.

What are your views on Bo Nix's growth in these two years in the NFL? Let us know in the comments!

Written by

Hetal Moleshri

Edited by

Kalp Thaker