The Denver Broncos have been in training camp for nearly two weeks and from what we have seen in those practices, Bo Nix seems to be the guy at quarterback as soon as the season kicks off. The team's first unofficial depth chart, released Tuesday morning, says otherwise.
However, these things can, and likely will, change. The key word here is "unofficial". That said, the team's first depth chart speaks to the belief that Sean Payton carries that his veteran players are always going to get the first look. Payton has never been big on giving rookies huge amounts of playing time, save for a few exceptions.
The expectation will be for Nix to be the team's starter in Week 1 against the Seattle Seahawks, but he is going to have to earn it because on this depth chart, he's not even the backup.
Bo Nix listed as QB3
Nix has outperformed Zach Wilson in team practices, but Wilson is listed as the backup behind Jarrett Stidham. It will be interesting to see how the team divides reps in the preseason opener against the Indianapolis Colts this Sunday.
But as you look up and down this depth chart, veterans are listed in starting positions and rookies are listed at the bottom. For example, Tim Patrick is a starting wide receiver despite not playing for the past two seasons while Troy Franklin is behind almost everyone else.
Audric Estime is behind Tyler Badie at running back.
The Broncos took an old-school approach to building their first unofficial depth chart, per source.
— Zac Stevens (@ZacStevensDNVR) August 6, 2024
Every rookie is listed last in their position, regardless of reps and/or performance so far.
Hence, at least a reason why Bo Nix is listed as the third QB.
There are also a couple of interesting "ties" at certain positions. At one inside linebacker spot, Jonas Griffith OR Cody Barton is listed as the starter next to Alex Singleton. At the second cornerback spot next to Pat Surtain II, the team has Damarri Mathis OR Riley Moss.
There is a lot to digest with this first depth chart, but probably not a lot to take too seriously.
MORE BRONCOS NEWS
Did Jerry Jeudy work his way out of Denver on purpose?
Broncos get defensive lineman back from suspension after one full year
Do the Broncos have enough depth at safety?
John Elway admits his biggest mistake as GM
