Denver Broncos edge rusher Baron Browning left the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers early due to a suspected ankle injury, prompting the team to bolster their roster depth.
“#Broncos are adding former #Chargers linebacker Andrew Farmer to the practice squad, according to league sources,” reported Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 on X on September 17.
Farmer, who went undrafted from Division II Lane College in 2023, has made a minimal impact so far, recording 3 tackles in eight games. He played 60 defensive snaps, making up 12% of the total, and 48 special teams snaps, representing a 60% share, according to Pro Football Reference. The 6-foot-4 linebacker had a notable college career, finishing with 11.5 sacks in 2021 and earning All-Conference recognition.
Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton is not overly concerned about rookie quarterback Bo Nix’s rough start to the season.
“He’s faced challenges before,” Payton remarked during a Monday press conference. “We would have preferred a better start, but he’s naturally confident in his preparation and ability and isn’t easily discouraged.”
Nix’s performance so far this season has been difficult, with a 59.7% completion rate, 384 yards, no touchdowns, and four interceptions across two starts.
Currently, the Broncos (0-2) are at the bottom of the AFC West and struggling offensively, ranking 29th in yards per game (263) and 30th in points per game (13). Nix has scored the team’s only touchdown so far with a four-yard rush in a 26-20 loss to the Seattle Seahawks in Week 1.
The No. 12 overall pick is facing a challenging situation, with ESPN’s Football Power Index rating the Broncos as the second-worst team in the league, just ahead of the Carolina Panthers (0-2).
On Monday, Forbes contributor Vincent Frank recommended that Denver should bench Nix to protect his future.
“Nix should remain on the sidelines until he gains more experience and the Broncos improve their skill-position talent,” Frank wrote. “They’ve invested too much in him to follow the same path seen with other struggling teams.”
Despite this, Payton has not suggested he will bench Nix. Following a 13-6 defeat to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 2, Nix remained positive about his situation.
“My confidence is bigger than football,” Nix said. “It’s bigger than wins and losses.”
The Broncos need to improve their performance, or Nix’s career could face further difficulties.
