The Denver Broncos are an old-school team. They focus on two things: Playing defense and running the ball.
You need to win in the trenches to do that. You need to have strong offensive and defensive lines, and that’s what Sean Payton and the front office have prioritized.
The Broncos have locked in the entire offensive line for years to come, and after watching them open up running lanes for J.K. Dobbins and R.J. Harvey and give Bo Nix plenty of time and space to move around in the pocket, that should be a scary thought for the rest of the league. That’s particularly true because of Garett Bolles.
As pointed out by Broncos insider Zac Stevens on X, Bolles currently sits on a tier of his own. He might be the best pass-protector in the league this season:
“Garett Bolles is the only tackle in the NFL to not allow a sack,” Stevens posted on X.
Garett Bolles is the only tackle in the NFL to not allow a sack. pic.twitter.com/bJ0bsiVVHy
— Zac Stevens (@ZacStevensDNVR) November 30, 2025
Bolles is a very good player, but you don’t hear his name being mentioned as often. Even so, he’s doing things that not even Penei Sewell or Trent Williams can brag about this year.
Bo Nix has shown some worrisome signs of regression after an Offensive Rookie of the Year-caliber campaign last season. At least, the Broncos have done an outstanding job of keeping him out of harm’s way and making sure he has enough time to find the open man.
Dominating the line of scrimmage usually leads to great things. And while skill players are obviously important, the unsung heroes in the trenches should definitely get more credit.
NEXT: Bo Nix Could Be Poised For Big Primetime Game
