Broncos QB Bo Nix's ankle injury dates back to Auburn

Denver coach Sean Payton reveals Nix had a pre-existing condition that made the fracture 'inevitable'

Jan. 28, 2026 at 9:47am

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Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix suffered a season-ending broken ankle in the divisional round of the playoffs, but the injury was not sudden or isolated. Broncos coach Sean Payton revealed that Nix had a pre-existing ankle condition that made the fracture "inevitable". The injury dates back to Nix's time at Auburn, where he originally hurt the ankle in 2021 and underwent surgery. Nix later transferred to Oregon before entering the NFL, and he also had an ankle "cleanup" surgery in 2025. Despite the extensive injury history, the Broncos believe Nix can recover and return to being healthy.

Why it matters

Nix's injury history raises questions about his durability and long-term outlook, especially for a quarterback who relies on his mobility. The Broncos will need to carefully manage his recovery and rehabilitation to ensure he can return to full strength and continue his NFL career.

The details

Payton said that "what was found was a condition that was predisposed" in Nix's ankle, meaning the fracture was not a sudden or isolated incident. Nix traveled to Birmingham, Alabama, for surgery performed by a specialist with ties to Auburn and Alabama football, the same group of physicians who have treated Nix's previous ankle issues dating back to college. Nix originally injured the ankle in 2021 while at Auburn, an injury that required surgery and ended his junior season. He later transferred to Oregon, where he revived his career before entering the NFL.

  • In 2021, Nix originally injured his right ankle while at Auburn, requiring surgery.
  • In January 2025, Nix underwent arthroscopic "cleanup" surgery on an ankle following the 2024 season.
  • On January 14, 2026, Nix suffered a season-ending broken ankle in the divisional round of the playoffs against the Buffalo Bills.

The players

Bo Nix

The Denver Broncos quarterback who suffered a season-ending broken ankle in the playoffs, an injury that dates back to his time at Auburn.

Sean Payton

The head coach of the Denver Broncos, who revealed details about Nix's pre-existing ankle condition.

Dr. Norman E. Waldrop III

A foot and ankle specialist at Andrews Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Center in Birmingham, Alabama, who performed surgery on Nix's broken ankle.

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What they’re saying

“What was found was a condition that was predisposed. It wasn't a matter of if, it was a matter of when.”

— Sean Payton, Head Coach, Denver Broncos

“He'll rehab his tail off and get back to being healthy. For someone who runs with the ball, he's done a pretty good job of protecting himself.”

— Sean Payton, Head Coach, Denver Broncos

What’s next

The Broncos will closely monitor Nix's recovery and rehabilitation process to ensure he can return to full strength and continue his NFL career.

The takeaway

Nix's extensive injury history, dating back to his college days at Auburn, raises concerns about his long-term durability. However, the Broncos remain confident that he can overcome this latest setback and regain his form, provided they manage his recovery carefully.