Denver Broncos weigh quarterback trade as Bo Nix recovers from ankle surgery

Quarterback Bo Nix is expected to be ready for the start of the 2026 NFL season after ankle surgery, but Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton is reportedly considering upgrading the quarterback room. ESPN suggests a trade for Spencer Rattler, the New Orleans Saints’ No. 2 quarterback, could be on the table. Payton previously noted that Nix’s ankle problems were “a matter of when,” and Nix pushed back, saying his recent procedure left “nothing predisposed, nothing that was there originally.”

In a separate announcement, Payton said linebacker Jonah Elliss will remain on the outside rather than moving inside, calling him “doing too good outside.” The Broncos have re‑signed Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad and added defensive lineman Tyler Onyedim, while still addressing depth concerns at inside linebacker.