# Denver Broncos offensive struggles and Bo Nix scrutiny > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/denver-broncos-and-seattle-seahawks-nfl-matchup > Updated: 2026-10-22T19:00:17.000Z. Sources: 39. Developments: 5. The Denver Broncos' offensive struggles have intensified, with the team's passing offense dropping to 28th in the NFL. Despite a 4-2 season record, quarterback Bo Nix has seen his passer rating decline from 87.8 last season to 79.4 in 2026. Debate has emerged regarding whether offseason changes to offensive terminology under former offensive coordinator Davis Webb contributed to this regression. While the team has since reverted to previous terminology under Sean Payton, the transition remains a point of contention. Nix continues to face sharp criticism from analysts like Ryan Fitzpatrick, who previously suggested Nix’s play was “almost disrespectful to the quarterback position,” drawing a defense from former player Aqib Talib. Coach Sean Payton has addressed speculation regarding the future of Bo Nix, stating he does not intend to bench the quarterback. Payton has expressed full confidence in Nix, emphasizing that performance is expected to improve as the team addresses broader issues, specifically citing the need for better offensive line play and a more balanced rushing attack. Recently, Nix addressed his performance, acknowledging a mental component to his regression. He noted that his recovery from a fractured ankle, which required two offseason surgeries, has impacted his form, stating, “I’d be lying if I said no.” While Nix maintains his physical health is fine, observers such as former Bills head coach Sean McDermott have noted a sense of “indecisiveness” in his play. Additionally, analysts have highlighted a significant drop in his rushing production compared to previous seasons. Nix has further elaborated on the mental hurdles associated with his surgically repaired right ankle. While he stated he is not “physically worried or scared,” he described the recovery from surgery performed six months ago as a “daily progression” necessary to return to peak form. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-22: Denver Broncos face offensive struggles and quarterback scrutiny Despite a 4-2 start, the Denver Broncos are struggling offensively. Quarterback Bo Nix is working to overcome mental hurdles following ankle surgery as the team seeks more consistent play. 9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bo-nix-discusses-mental-hurdles-following-ankle-surgery ### 2026-10-20: Bo Nix addresses regression and mental hurdles amid Broncos slump Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix has acknowledged that mental hurdles and his recovery from a fractured ankle have contributed to his recent performance regression. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/denver-broncos-coach-sean-payton-defends-quarterback-bo-nix ### 2026-10-18: Denver Broncos QB Bo Nix faces scrutiny amid offensive struggles Denver Broncos QB Bo Nix faces criticism and scrutiny over offensive struggles, though coach Sean Payton maintains confidence in him despite reports that changing offensive terminology may have impacted his 202 9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/denver-broncos-defeat-seattle-seahawks-despite-offensive-struggles ### 2026-10-15: Denver Broncos defeat Seattle Seahawks 17-14 in overtime The Denver Broncos beat the Seattle Seahawks 17-14 in overtime, driven by a Ja’Quan McMillian interception and a Wil Lutz field goal, despite a struggling Broncos offense. 31 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/denver-broncos-defeat-seattle-seahawks-17-14-in-overtime ### 2026-10-14: Seattle Seahawks lose to Denver Broncos amid ball security concerns The Seattle Seahawks fell 17-14 to the Denver Broncos, prompting coach Mike Macdonald to demand better ball security from quarterback Sam Darnold following critical late-game turnovers. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/los-angeles-chargers-face-0-5-start-amid-trade-rumors --- Cite as: Denver Broncos offensive struggles and Bo Nix scrutiny. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/denver-broncos-and-seattle-seahawks-nfl-matchup