The Denver Broncos have officially announced their team captains for the 2024 NFL season, with veteran players Courtland Sutton, Alex Singleton, Quinn Meinerz, Wil Lutz, and Patrick Surtain II all receiving the honor. While these selections were expected, the biggest surprise came with rookie starting quarterback Bo Nix also being voted as a team captain. This rare occurrence marks the first time a Broncos rookie has been named captain since Hall of Famer Floyd Little in 1967.
QB Bo Nix is the first Broncos rookie to be named captain since Floyd Little in 1967.
“That’s not something that happens that often. It’s something you earn.” – HC Sean Payton pic.twitter.com/okDrQzdLTm
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) September 4, 2024
During a media briefing, Broncos head coach Sean Payton expressed his surprise at Nix’s captaincy, highlighting the rarity of a rookie being bestowed such a responsibility. Payton emphasized that the players’ votes reflected a unanimous decision and praised Nix for his leadership qualities.
“You hit on it. That’s not something that happens that often. I think it’s something you earn. These guys—all of them voted on these guys. It’s probably as clean a result as I’d seen in a while relative to those players that were all selected. It’s unusual for a rookie to get made captain, and yet by nature that position to some degree is leading. That was something that organically takes place throughout the spring and training camp and goes from there.”
Despite the rarity of a rookie captaincy, Nix’s teammates and coaches have lauded his maturity, work ethic, and on-field performance. The quarterback’s ability to earn the respect and trust of his peers has solidified his position as a team leader.
Reflecting on the unique situation, Payton commended Nix for his accomplishments and reiterated the team’s belief in his capabilities as a captain.
“It’s a first for me. Just say rookie, period, in fairness to the process. I think it is what it is. I think it’s a credit to him, and I think his teammates felt that he belonged in that position.”
In a statement to the press, Nix expressed his gratitude for being named captain, emphasizing the honor and responsibility that comes with the title. He pledged to approach his role with dedication and humility.
“It’s an honor. It’s a privilege. I’m excited to be with this group and [I’m] excited to be a captain. I don’t take it lightly. I know it’s a big deal. It hasn’t happened often, but I’m not going to take it for granted. I have to come into work every single day and just prove that you can be a captain. I’m excited to work with these other guys, and I think it’s good that we can get out there and set the tone. It’s always good to be a captain.”
As Nix continues to excel on and off the field, his journey as a rookie captain showcases his determination and leadership. With the season opener approaching, all eyes are on Nix as he prepares for his NFL debut and looks to lead the Broncos to victory.
Despite the challenges ahead, Nix’s progress and performance thus far have instilled confidence in the team and coaching staff. As he gears up for his first start against the Seahawks, the Broncos are optimistic about Nix’s potential impact and leadership on the field.