One stat highlights why Denver Broncos QB Bo Nix succeeded as a rookie and where he still has room to grow

Normally, it wouldn't be too big of a deal to have a rookie quarterback throw that often short, but it was a common theme for Nix during his only two successful collegiate seasons, both of which came at Auburn. The offense was structured to give Nix quick throws behind or close to the line of scrimmage. Nix had an average depth of target of just 6.9 in his final year of college and the Ducks had the most yards after the catch than any other school by a whopping 400 yards.

That hasn't changed for Nix, who is a very risk-averse quarterback and that manifested in Denver as a rookie, especially down the stretch when it when Nix ranked 25th in average depth of target at 6.8 yards the last half of the season. It can also be difficult to truly judge what Nix can be moving forward due to how good Payton has been at scheming things open for him.

As a rookie, Nix was a decent passer down the field. He had 23 big time throws to just 13 turnover worthy plays, but so many of his throws down the field were wide open because of how well it was schemed.

However, down the stretch, the intermediate throws became more scarce, including against the Buffalo Bills in the playoffs with just 144 yards passing. After the first drive ended in a long touchdown, things struggled the rest of the game.

Developing that intermediate passing game and not relying on the schemed up short passes is where Nix needs to see the most growth.