As the Denver Broncos near the conclusion of the 2024 NFL season, they find themselves at a critical crossroads. At the heart of the decision is veteran left tackle Garett Bolles, whose contract is set to expire. Bolles’ future could significantly shape the trajectory of rookie quarterback Bo Nix, making the decision about his return pivotal for the Broncos’ long-term success.
Bolles: The Backbone of Denver’s Offensive Line
Drafted 20th overall in 2017, Bolles, now 32, has been the stalwart of the Broncos’ offensive line for eight seasons. Despite ups and downs in his early career, Bolles has emerged as one of the league’s premier pass protectors. Pro Football Focus ranks him among the top five pass blockers in the NFL this season, and his 93.2% pass block win rate further underscores his importance.
After battling injuries from 2020 to 2022, Bolles played a full slate of games in 2023 and has continued to perform at an elite level in 2024. According to SB Nation, Bolles has allowed just one sack and one quarterback hit in 356 pass-blocking snaps this season. These stats are especially impressive given that Bolles is protecting a rookie quarterback who is still learning to stay poised in the pocket.
The Financial and Strategic Dilemma
Bolles’ current deal—a four-year, $68 million contract—expires at the end of this season. Retaining him would likely require a new deal in the range of three years and $66 million, positioning him as a top-10 paid tackle. While some argue this price tag is steep for a player in his 30s, Bolles’ value at a premium position and his current performance make a strong case for Denver to re-sign him.
The risk of letting Bolles walk is substantial. In a league where quality left tackles are scarce, Bolles would command significant attention in free agency. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler noted that Bolles’ desire to stay in Denver could help facilitate a deal, but no guarantees exist. The Broncos could find themselves gambling on an unproven younger player, a move that could hinder Nix’s development.
Sean Payton and the Broncos’ Long-Term Vision
The decision ultimately lies with Broncos head coach Sean Payton and general manager George Paton. Both have emphasized building a strong foundation around Nix, who is viewed as the franchise’s future. Allowing Bolles to leave could send a mixed message about their commitment to protecting their young quarterback.
Bolles has made it clear he wants to remain in Denver:
“I would love to finish here. The ball is not in my court. It’s in the front office’s court… My job is to play good football day in and day out. They know I want to be here and finish my career here as a Denver Bronco.”
This sentiment is echoed by The Denver Post’s Troy Renck, who argued that Bolles’ leadership and consistency are irreplaceable:
“Would Denver really gamble with Nix’s development by going with a younger, cheaper player to protect his blindside? It is not advisable, but possible.”
Leadership and Locker Room Presence
Beyond his on-field contributions, Bolles has been a leader in the Broncos’ locker room. His defense of young teammate Alex Forsyth after a critical mistake against the Kansas City Chiefs highlights his role as a mentor and protector. Bolles’ ability to rally his teammates and maintain morale further cements his value to the team.
A Tough Call with High Stakes
The Broncos’ decision on Bolles will have far-reaching consequences. Letting him go could disrupt the offensive line’s chemistry and expose Nix to unnecessary risk. On the other hand, committing significant cap space to an aging player requires confidence in Bolles’ ability to sustain his performance.
With the stakes so high, the Broncos must weigh their options carefully. Bolles’ consistency, leadership, and elite pass-blocking make a strong case for his return, especially as Denver seeks to build around its young quarterback. As Renck succinctly put it:
“Bolles has earned another contract.”
The coming weeks will reveal whether Denver shares that sentiment or opts for a different path. One thing is clear: this decision will define the Broncos’ future and Bo Nix’s rise as their franchise quarterback.
