Denver Broncos offensive tackle Garett Bolles suggested that the presence of starting quarterback Bo Nix would have significantly altered a recent loss to the Patriots, noting the game "would be a different ballgame" if the quarterback had played. The veteran tackle, a former University of Utah standout, made the comments this week while discussing team dynamics and his continued role within the Denver franchise.
Community Leadership and Honors
Bolles, who is 34 years old and stands 6-5 and 300 pounds, has become a central figure in the Broncos' offensive identity. According to NFL.com, the veteran has entered his 10th NFL season and remains a vital component of the team's roster. His influence extends beyond the field through his community work, which recently earned him recognition as a 2026 NFLPA Alan Page Community Award winner. This honor highlights his dedication to service, specifically his efforts in mentoring youth within the juvenile justice system.
Philanthropy and Education
The offensive lineman's impact on the Denver community is further evidenced by his personal philanthropic initiatives. Bolles recently opened an apraxia education center dedicated to his son, a project he described as a "dream come true." Through this center, Bolles aims to raise awareness and provide support for special education teachers and families facing similar challenges. This commitment to service was a key factor in his nomination for the 2023 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award presented by Nationwide.
Career Longevity in Denver
On the field, Bolles has established himself as one of the most durable and consistent players in the Broncos' history. Data from the Denver Broncos organization notes that he has started all 116 regular-season games and one postseason contest during his tenure in Denver, which began in 2017. He holds the distinction of being the first Bronco in franchise history to reach 100 career starts at left tackle. In 2024, he participated in 1,110 offensive snaps, representing 97.0% of the team's total plays at that position.
Elite Analytical Performance
Bolles' performance has been consistently high, as reflected in advanced analytics. According to PFF, Bolles earned an overall grade of 89.3 during the 2025 season, ranking him 5th out of 89 offensive tackles. His pass block grade was particularly notable at 90.8, placing him 1st out of 89 tackles. His high level of play earned him his first career All-Pro selection and a spot on the Associated Press' All-Pro second team in 2020.
Contract and Financial Impact
The Broncos' commitment to Bolles is reflected in his recent contract security. The team signed the left tackle to a four-year, $82 million contract extension that includes $42 million in guaranteed money. This deal ensures Bolles remains in Denver through the 2028 season, marking his 12th NFL season. The extension followed a period where the club moved past significant financial obligations related to former quarterback Russell Wilson, which had cost the team $85 million in dead money over two offseasons.
Team Dynamics and Outlook
Bolles' tenure in Denver has been marked by various highs and lows. He has expressed significant praise for the team's current direction under head coach Sean Payton, stating he is "always in the GB zone" during training camp. He has also been a vocal defender of teammates, previously stating that critics of Russell Wilson would "eat crow" in 2023. Looking forward, Bolles believes the chemistry and tenacity of the offensive line will be the key to improving the Broncos' run game.
Utah Roots and Youth Outreach
Bolles' roots in Utah remain a significant part of his professional journey. Before joining the NFL, he played for the University of Utah, where he started all 13 games in 2016 and was named first-team All-Pac 12 Conference after playing 891 snaps. His professional career began when he was selected by the Broncos in the first round, 20th overall, of the 2017 NFL Draft. To give back to his home state, Bolles recently participated in a free youth football camp in Lehi, Utah, through the GB3 Foundation.
