A Familiar Connection: Bo Nix and the Denver Broncos
During the 2024 NFL Draft, the Denver Broncos made a strategic and exciting move by selecting Bo Nix, the promising quarterback from Oregon, in the first round. In a further show of commitment to building chemistry, they traded up in the fourth round to bring in Troy Franklin, Nix’s top wide receiver from his college days. The Broncos already had Alex Forsyth, Nix’s former center at Oregon, on the roster, indicating a clear intent to replicate the familiar and successful setup from their college days. This approach aims to ease Nix’s transition into the NFL by surrounding him with trusted teammates who understand his playing style and can help build a cohesive offensive unit.
Struggles and Comebacks
The initialTexParameter goes smoothly for the Broncos. However, both Forsyth and Franklin faced significant challenges during their rookie seasons. Forsyth lost the starting center position to Luke Wattenberg and was notably the player responsible for a crucial blocked field goal in the Broncos’ heartbreaking loss to the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. Similarly, Franklin had a rough training camp and preseason, eventually being surpassed on the depth chart by seventh-round pick Devaughn Vele. Despite these setbacks, the connection between Nix and Franklin began to show promise toward the end of the season. Franklin concluded his rookie year with an impressive 28 receptions for 263 yards and two touchdowns, including a standout 43-yard touchdown catch in the playoffs against the Buffalo Bills. This moment demonstrated the potential and synergy between Nix and Franklin, providing a glimmer of hope for the future of the Broncos’ offense.
The Dream Scenario: Tez Johnson and the Broncos
The Broncos’ recent experiences have highlighted the need for additional offensive firepower. One name that keeps coming up in draft discussions is Tez Johnson, another of Nix’s Oregon teammates. Johnson was recently asked about the possibility of being drafted by the Broncos at the Reese’s Senior Bowl. He referred to Nix as his "brother" and expressed that playing in Denver would be a "dream come true." Johnson’s relationship with Nix extends beyond the football field; he was taken in by the Nix family at a young age, forming a deep bond that could translate into on-field chemistry. Pro Football and Sports Network (PFSN) have also endorsed the idea, projecting the Broncos to select Johnson at No. 51 overall in the second round of their 7-round mock draft.
Johnson’s Impact and Potential
Johnson was one of the top wide receivers in the country during his time at Oregon. Even though his yardage numbers dipped in 2024 with Nix playing in the NFL, he still managed to catch 83 passes and score 10 touchdowns. PFSN notes that while Johnson may be undersized, his speed and agility make him a formidable asset, capable of stressing defenses in a similar manner to Tank Dell. The network believes that reuniting Nix, Franklin, and Johnson could significantly elevate the Broncos’ offensive capabilities. This combination of familiar faces and proven talent could help solidify a key component of the team’s rebuild, providing Nix with a comfortable and effective support system.
The Broader Context: Team Strategy and Future Prospects
The Broncos’ focus on building chemistry is not just a sentimental move but a strategic one. Their loss to the Bills in the playoffs underscored the gaps in their offensive lineup, particularly the need for reliable and explosive wide receivers. The team is evaluating their options in the draft, and the connection between Johnson and Nix adds a unique dimension to their decision-making process. If the Broncos have the opportunity to draft Johnson and if Nix has any say in the matter, it’s highly likely that this pick will become a reality. The potential for a cohesive and dynamic offense centered around these Oregon alumni could be a game-changer for the Broncos, setting them up for a strong future in the league.
Looking Ahead: The Broncos’ Journey Continues
The Broncos are in a pivotal phase of their rebuild, and the 2025 draft presents a crucial opportunity to strengthen their roster. By bringing in familiar faces like Troy Franklin and potentially Tez Johnson, the team is setting a foundation of trust and comfort for their young quarterback, Bo Nix. This approach, combined with other strategic moves like exploring free agency and possibly trading up in the draft, shows the Broncos’ commitment to building a competitive and cohesive team. As the 2025 season approaches, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these pieces come together, hoping for a Broncos offense that can not only match but exceed the expectations set by their college successes. The journey continues, and the future looks promising for the Denver Broncos.
