Bo Nix shows flashes, but footwork woes after Colts loss

Bo Nix’s second NFL season has shown flashes of the mobility and playmaking that made him a first‑round pick, but also recurring mechanical issues and a sideline confrontation with coach Sean Payton that underscored the Broncos’ uneven start, all culminating in a 29‑28 loss to the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Denver held a 21‑20 lead at halftime after Nix threw three first‑half touchdown passes, but the Colts rallied to win on a last‑second field goal. Nix finished 22 of 30 for 206 yards, three touchdowns and an interception in the loss and also ran for 20 yards. Across Denver’s first two games, the second‑year quarterback has completed 67.1 percent of his passes for 382 yards, four touchdowns and three interceptions, by one account of early‑season metrics, drawing scrutiny even as teammates such as receiver Troy Franklin have emerged as unexpected contributors.

Coaching staff and analysts point to Nix’s lower‑body mechanics as the root of many of his errant throws. Offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi said film review showed timing problems related to where Nix’s feet are at the point of release. “When he moves, good things happen. Sometimes he moves with...