Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix continued the NFL tradition of gifting Christmas presents to his offensive line this week, but with a twist. When asked if he would be participating in the annual tradition, Nix joked about the consequences of not taking part. “I’m afraid if I don’t participate, I’ll be cut from the team,” he laughed during a Tuesday interview. “So yes, I’m participating. It’s going to be a surprise.”
That surprise came in the form of Traeger smoker grills, one for each member of the Broncos’ offensive line. The thoughtful gift was revealed when Nix took the team to a garage on Wednesday morning, where all 13 grills were stacked up and ready for distribution. This included players on the active roster, three from the practice squad, and even one on injured reserve. Right tackle Mike McGlinchey confirmed the generous gesture, adding that Nix gifted grills to everyone on the line.
Luke Wattenberg, the Broncos’ center, expressed his excitement about the presents, telling The Denver Gazette’s Chris Tomasson, “It’s a great gift. I’m super excited to use it.” Given the significant role the offensive line plays in protecting Nix—who has been sacked 22 times this season, ranking him seventh among NFL quarterbacks for most sacks—the gesture was a way for him to show appreciation for their hard work on the field.
This holiday tradition highlights the bond between quarterbacks and their offensive lines, with gifts like these helping to strengthen the camaraderie and mutual respect that is so essential to a team’s success.