According to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport, the Denver Broncos have signed left tackle Garett Bolles to a four-year, $82 million contract extension, which could reach up to $86 million with incentives, and includes $42 million in guaranteed money. Bolles, a former first-round pick, was just a few months away from entering free agency and potentially becoming one of the top offensive players available. However, the Broncos ensured he would not hit the market by securing him for another four years.
While Bolles has had issues with penalties in the past, he has recently improved and is playing at a high level. He has been a key part of protecting rookie quarterback Bo Nix, helping to keep him upright this season. This move also ensures the Broncos’ offensive line remains intact for a third consecutive season, aside from the departure of center Lloyd Cushenberry in free agency this offseason.
Since Sean Payton became head coach, the Broncos have invested significantly in their offensive line, signing right tackle Mike McGlinchey, left guard Ben Powers, and extending guard Quinn Meinerz. Now, they’ve locked up Bolles with his own long-term deal.
With the left tackle position settled, the Broncos can now focus on adding weapons around Nix. They have needs at running back, tight end, and wide receiver, and can now allocate money and/or high draft picks to address these areas. Nix’s success on his rookie contract allows the team to bolster the offense without breaking the bank.
As the Broncos make a push for the postseason, with a crucial game against the Colts this Sunday, the focus is on the present. However, there’s excitement about the moves they will make this offseason to strengthen the offense for the future.