Garett Bolles Is Dominating on the Field-and Making a Difference Off It
Through 14 games in 2025, Denver Broncos left tackle Garett Bolles is putting together one of the most quietly dominant seasons of any offensive lineman in the NFL. According to Pro Football Focus, Bolles hasn’t allowed a single sack this year.
That’s not just impressive-it’s elite. In a league where edge rushers are faster, stronger, and more creative than ever, keeping your quarterback clean for 14 straight games is the kind of performance that anchors an offense and earns serious respect in the trenches.
But Bolles’ impact this season goes far beyond the field.
For the second time in his career, Bolles has been named the Broncos’ nominee for the Walter Payton Man of the Year award-one of the NFL’s most prestigious honors, recognizing players who excel in community service as well as on-field performance. His first nomination came in 2023, and now, two years later, he’s back on the list-this time for a cause that hits especially close to home.
Bolles partnered with renowned speech-language pathologist Jennie Bjorem to launch the Bjorem & Bolles (B&B) Apraxia Education Initiative, a program focused on supporting children with speech disorders. That partnership led to the opening of a groundbreaking education and training center in Colorado-the first of its kind in the state-aimed at expanding access to resources and support for families and professionals working with childhood apraxia of speech.
For Bolles, this recognition is personal and powerful.
“It’s amazing, it truly is,” Bolles said when asked about the nomination. “When you talk about Walter Payton and you just know who the man he was… being nominated for the second time, I’m super grateful. It’s truly a blessing for me and my family.”
There’s a genuine humility in Bolles’ words. He made sure to credit others within the Broncos organization who are active in the community, saying, “There are so many great people in this building that deserve it.”
But make no mistake-his work stands out. Bolles has embraced the platform the NFL provides, using his voice and influence to champion an issue that’s often overlooked.
Broncos head coach Sean Payton didn’t hold back when praising his left tackle.
“We have so many people in this league that go out and above and beyond,” Payton said. “The stuff Garett does is remarkable.
Anytime we have a guest at Saturday’s practice-maybe a child with a wish-the last person there is Garett. He’s relentless with his giving, and that reflects well on our team and our organization.
That’s a big deal. I’m proud of him for that.”
That kind of consistency-both in protection on Sundays and in service during the week-is what makes Bolles’ 2025 season so special. He’s not just one of the best offensive linemen in football right now; he’s also one of its most impactful human beings.
And in a league that’s always looking for leaders on and off the field, Bolles is setting a powerful example.