Denver Broncos Hope to Give Bo Nix the Last Laugh with Their New ‘Joker’

The Denver Broncos have made it clear: the Bo Nix era is officially here. After selecting the former Oregon quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft, the team is fully committed to building around him. However, success for a rookie quarterback isn’t just about talent—it’s about scheme, support, and playmakers.

That’s where the ‘joker’ comes in.

In football terminology, a ‘joker’ player is a versatile, unpredictable offensive weapon—someone who can line up in multiple positions, create mismatches, and keep defenses guessing. Whether it’s a running back who can split out wide, a tight end who moves like a receiver, or a receiver who lines up in the backfield, the role is about flexibility and playmaking.

As the Broncos look to turn the page and give Bo Nix every opportunity to succeed, they’re hoping that their new offensive chess piece—their joker—will give their young QB the last laugh on those who doubted him.

Bo Nix: From College Star to NFL Underdog

Bo Nix enters the NFL with a chip on his shoulder.

Despite breaking records at Oregon, critics have questioned his NFL upside. Some scouts labeled him a “system QB,” pointing to Oregon’s fast-paced spread offense and wondering if he could replicate his success in a pro-style system.

Why the Broncos Believe in Nix

• Experience: Nix played more college games (61) than most NFL quarterbacks, meaning he has seen virtually every defensive look.
• Mobility: He isn’t a traditional pocket passer—his ability to extend plays and make throws on the run is a major asset.
• Football IQ: At Oregon, he mastered an offense that relied on quick reads, fast decisions, and accuracy, all of which translate to the NFL.

Despite the doubters, Denver fully believes in Nix. And to help him succeed, they’re crafting an offense that maximizes his strengths—starting with the addition of their ‘joker’ weapon’.

Who is Denver’s ‘Joker’?

The Broncos’ offseason moves suggest that they’re looking for a versatile playmaker to add to their offense.

Potential ‘Jokers’ on the Roster

1. Javonte Williams (RB) – A powerful back who can also be a receiving threat.
2. Marvin Mims Jr. (WR) – A speedy deep threat who could be used creatively in motion.
3. Greg Dulcich (TE) – A pass-catching tight end with the ability to line up in the slot.

But the real ‘joker’ might not be on the roster yet. The Broncos could look to the draft or free agency to find a hybrid playmaker who can line up all over the field.

Traits of an Ideal ‘Joker’ Player:

✅ Position Flexibility – Can play multiple roles (RB, WR, TE).
✅ Mismatch Creator – Too fast for linebackers, too big for defensive backs.
✅ Dynamic Playmaker – Threat to score whenever they touch the ball.

One name that stands out? Deebo Samuel (49ers). While Denver won’t land Samuel himself, they might be looking for a player in that mold—a do-it-all offensive weapon.

How the ‘Joker’ Fits in Denver’s Offense

1. Creating Easy Throws for Bo Nix

A rookie QB’s best friend is a player who can make big plays after the catch. Instead of relying on deep throws, Denver can scheme up short passes to the ‘joker’ and let him create.

2. Misdirection and Motion

Sean Payton loves using motion and pre-snap movement to confuse defenses. A ‘joker’ gives him even more flexibility:

• Lining up in the slot on one play, then moving to the backfield on the next
• Running jet sweeps and bubble screens to keep defenses honest
• Being a checkdown option for Nix when pressure comes

3. Red Zone Weapon

Denver struggled in the red zone last season. A versatile playmaker could be the answer, giving Nix an extra option in tight spaces.

Who Could Be Denver’s Next ‘Joker’?

If Denver doesn’t already have their joker on the roster, they could find one in the draft or free agency.

Top ‘Joker’ Prospects in the 2025 Draft

1. Malik Nabers (WR, LSU) – A Deebo Samuel-type receiver with elite YAC ability.
2. Braelon Allen (RB, Wisconsin) – A powerful back who can also catch passes.
3. Ja’Tavion Sanders (TE, Texas) – A tight end who moves like a receiver, making him a nightmare for defenses.

Potential Free Agent ‘Joker’ Targets

• Curtis Samuel (Commanders) – A versatile WR who can also take handoffs.
• Cordarrelle Patterson (Falcons) – A veteran hybrid RB/WR.
• Tony Pollard (Cowboys) – A quick, dynamic playmaker.

If Denver lands a true ‘joker’ weapon, it will make life much easier for Bo Nix as he adjusts to the NFL.

Bo Nix’s Revenge Tour: Proving the Doubters Wrong

Critics have doubted Bo Nix his entire career—from his struggles at Auburn to his draft stock concerns. But the Broncos are betting on his talent, work ethic, and leadership to guide them into the future.

How Denver is Setting Nix Up for Success

🔹 Investing in the offensive line to give him time in the pocket.
🔹 Building a strong running game to take pressure off him.
🔹 Finding him a ‘joker’ playmaker to create big plays.

If it all comes together, Bo Nix could have the last laugh—not just over his doubters but over the entire NFL.