Columnist suggests Broncos should consider benching rookie QB Bo Nix

Through his first two starts, Denver Broncos rookie quarterback Bo Nix has been treading water, and it's unclear if his situation will improve. 

While it would be drastic, Mark Kiszla of the Denver Gazette suggested benching Nix — who has posted a below-average 35.4 QBR thus far — may be the right move. 

"But if [head coach Sean] Payton doesn't have the humility to change his scheme to fit the strengths of Nix, then the coach must at least exhibit the humanity to sit his rookie on the bench," wrote Kiszla. "Why? With blitzing linebackers buzzing and the sky falling around a rookie NFL quarterback, a seat on the bench can give him room to breathe."

Some would argue benching a rookie QB hurts their confidence. However, letting a young passer sit and learn can benefit them. 

During his rookie season in 1983, the Broncos benched Hall of Fame QB John Elway after he threw one TD and five picks through his first five games. He then replaced an injured Steve DeBerg (shoulder) and led the Broncos to two Super Bowl wins in five appearances in 16 seasons with the club. 

Plus, Payton's scheme could be inhibiting Nix's growth. The HC seemingly admitted he doesn't know how to maximize the 24-year-old's skills following a 13-6 loss against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday.  

"What scheme fits our players? What scheme fits our quarterback?" Payton said in a postgame news conference.

The 12th overall pick isn't getting much help from his ground game, either. Denver ranks 27th in the NFL in rushing yards (81.5).

If the Broncos (0-2) keep losing games, critics may blame Nix, which may shatter his confidence.

"If Payton can't find a way to the end zone on a regular basis, the constant failure will push him toward the scrap heap littered with so many young QBs," wrote Kiszla. 

Benching Nix in favor of Jarrett Stidham or former first-round pick Zach Wilson may be controversial, but Kiszla's take should give the Broncos food for thought.