--- title: "Bo Nix on track for training camp after ankle surgery" description: "Broncos QB Bo Nix returned to full offseason workouts after a second ankle procedure, staying on schedule for camp amid ongoing depth-chart questions." url: https://sportopod.com/en-US/cluster/bo-nix-on-track-for-training-camp-says-2nd-surgery-was-for-ce3c14a0 published: 2026-07-01T22:35:06.257+00:00 updated: 2026-07-01T22:35:06.257+00:00 author: "Kostadin Stamboliev" publisher: "Pineido" site: "Sportopod" language: en topics: ["football"] --- # Bo Nix on track for training camp after ankle surgery > Broncos QB Bo Nix returned to full offseason workouts after a second ankle procedure, staying on schedule for camp amid ongoing depth-chart questions. Bo Nix is back in full offseason workouts after a second surgery to remove bone spurs from his right ankle, keeping the Broncos’ quarterback on pace for training camp. The 2023 first-round pick made his first appearance in a full offseason practice this week, signaling his recovery remains on schedule. Nix underwent the outpatient procedure in late May, and team sources confirmed he has progressed without setbacks. Broncos head coach Sean Payton said Nix is handling the load as expected and has not been limited in drills. The timing matters because the Broncos enter camp with uncertainty at quarterback beyond Nix. Jarrett Stidham, the presumed No. 2, has yet to prove he can push for meaningful snaps, while third-string rookie Spencer Rattler is still adjusting to the NFL. Denver’s depth chart at the position remains a talking point as the roster takes shape. Nix addressed the surgery directly, calling it a “routine” fix for bone spurs and saying he felt “great” during his return to practice. He declined to specify a timeline for contact drills but emphasized his focus is on being ready when camp opens in late July. The ankle issue traces back to Nix’s college days at Auburn, where he dealt with persistent discomfort that flared during the 2023 combine. The Broncos drafted him 12th overall last April, banking on his durability and upside despite the medical red flags. Now, with two procedures in 15 months, the organization’s risk tolerance is being tested early in his career. Payton’s handling of Nix’s rehab reflects a broader philosophy: prioritize the starter’s availability over speculative depth moves. The approach mirrors Denver’s 2023 strategy, which leaned heavily on Nix despite his limitations. If Nix remains healthy, the Broncos avoid repeating last year’s quarterback carousel. But if he misses time, the thin depth chart forces Payton into a high-stakes gamble before Week 1. The medical history adds pressure to Nix’s timeline. Bone spurs often recur in athletes with high joint stress, and the Broncos’ medical staff is monitoring for signs of recurrence. Nix’s ability to absorb offseason workload without aggravation will be scrutinized as camp approaches, especially since the team has no viable contingency plan if he falters. The draft investment amplifies the stakes. Nix’s $18.5 million guarantee ranks among the highest for a rookie quarterback in recent Broncos history, tying the organization to his development. If he proves durable, Denver’s front office can justify the decision. If not, the same guarantee becomes a sunk cost that could haunt Payton’s decision-making in the heat of the season. What’s next: The Broncos will ramp up padded practices in the coming weeks, with camp opening on July 24. Nix’s health will be monitored closely, but the early returns suggest he’ll be cleared for the preseason opener on August 8. ## Why this matters Nix’s recovery is a bellwether for the Broncos’ quarterback room and offensive planning. If he stays healthy, Denver avoids a repeat of last year’s revolving door under center. But if setbacks emerge, the team’s thin depth could force Payton into uncomfortable decisions before Week 1. The stakes are amplified by Nix’s draft pedigree and the Broncos’ $18.5 million investment in guaranteed money, making his availability a front-office litmus test. The medical recurrence risk and the lack of proven depth behind Nix turn every practice snap into a stress test for the franchise’s long-term quarterback calculus. ## Frequently asked ### What was the procedure Bo Nix underwent? Nix had a second outpatient surgery to remove bone spurs from his right ankle, a procedure team sources described as routine. ### When does Broncos training camp open? Denver’s training camp begins on July 24, with the preseason opener scheduled for August 8. ### Who is the Broncos’ backup quarterback? Jarrett Stidham is listed as the No. 2 behind Nix, though his ability to push for meaningful snaps remains unproven. ### How has Nix performed in practice since the surgery? Nix has participated in full offseason drills without limitations, according to head coach Sean Payton. ### What’s the urgency around Nix’s recovery? With limited depth behind him, Nix’s health directly impacts Denver’s Week 1 readiness and offensive strategy. ### How much guaranteed money did the Broncos invest in Nix? Denver guaranteed $18.5 million to Nix, making his health a front-office priority this offseason. ### Could the bone spurs return after surgery? Yes. Bone spurs often recur in athletes with high joint stress, which is why the Broncos’ medical staff is monitoring Nix closely as camp approaches. ## Sources & Citations - [Bo Nix on track for training camp, says 2nd surgery was for bone spurs - ESPN](https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/49087824/broncos-bo-nix-track-training-camp-says-second-ankle-surgery-was-bone-spurs) — NewsAPI.org (2026-06-17) --- Cite: Bo Nix on track for training camp after ankle surgery. Sportopod, 2026-07-01. https://sportopod.com/en-US/cluster/bo-nix-on-track-for-training-camp-says-2nd-surgery-was-for-ce3c14a0