Bo Nix injury update: Will Broncos QB play this week in the NFL Conference Championship?

The Denver Broncos’ fairytale playoff run hit a sudden roadblock last week when starting quarterback Bo Nix suffered a serious ankle injury in the AFC Divisional Round. While Denver celebrated a dramatic overtime win over the Buffalo Bills, the mood quickly changed once news broke that Nix had fractured his ankle on the final drive of the game.

With the AFC Conference Championship now just days away, one question revolves around Broncos fans: will Bo Nix be able to play this week?

Is Bo Nix playing in the Conference Championship?

Nix was injured late in the fourth quarter while trying to extend a play with his legs. What first looked like a routine tackle turned out to be far more serious. Medical tests after the game confirmed that the rookie quarterback had suffered a fractured ankle, an injury that would require surgery and immediate rest.

The Broncos officially ruled Nix out for the remainder of the postseason soon after. Team sources confirmed that he has already been scheduled for surgery and will begin his rehabilitation process shortly.



Bo Nix will not play in the AFC Conference Championship this week. The Broncos have ruled him out, and there is no scenario in which he can return in time for the game. Despite some online rumors suggesting otherwise, Denver has made it clear that Nix’s season is over.

Head coach Sean Payton has also publicly backed this decision, saying the team will not take any risks with their franchise quarterback’s long-term health.

Viral rumor causes confusion among fans

A viral post on social media claimed that the Broncos were “seriously considering” giving Nix a strong painkiller to help him play through the injury. The post quickly gained traction and gave some fans false hope.

However, the source of that post was later identified as a satire account. The Broncos never considered putting Nix on painkillers to play, and the report was completely false.

The team medical staff has maintained that playing with a fractured ankle would be dangerous and irresponsible.



With Nix sidelined, backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham will start against the New England Patriots with the Super Bowl on the line. Stidham has limited playoff experience, but the coaching staff has expressed confidence in his ability to manage the game.

Denver is expected to lean heavily on its strong running game and defense, hoping to reduce pressure on the backup quarterback.

The good news for Broncos fans is that Nix is expected to make a full recovery. Early reports suggest he should be ready in time for the start of the 2026 season, provided there are no setbacks during rehab.



Get the latest WPL 2026 updates including WPL teams, full WPL 2026 schedule, and live scores for Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, UP Warriorz, Gujarat Giants, and Delhi Capitals. Also check the latest WPL Orange Cap and Purple Cap standings.