What's Happening?
The Denver Broncos have two nominees, Garett Bolles and Quinn Meinerz, for the NFL's inaugural Protector of the Year Award, which honors the league's best offensive lineman. Bolles, a left tackle, led all NFL tackles with a 90.8 pass-blocking grade and did not allow a single sack in 2025. Meinerz, a right guard, topped all NFL guards with a 90.9 overall grade and a 92.1 run-blocking grade. Their performances have been instrumental in the Broncos' offensive success, contributing to a strong running game and effective pass protection.
Why It's Important?
The nominations of Bolles and Meinerz highlight the critical role of offensive linemen in a team's success. Their recognition underscores the importance of protecting quarterbacks and facilitating offensive plays,
which are essential for winning games. This acknowledgment could influence how teams value and compensate their linemen, potentially leading to greater recognition and financial rewards for these players. The award also brings attention to the technical skills and physical demands required in this position, encouraging younger players to pursue careers as offensive linemen.
What's Next?
The winner of the Protector of the Year Award will be announced during the NFL Honors on February 5. This event will provide a platform to celebrate the achievements of offensive linemen and could set a precedent for future awards. The recognition of Bolles and Meinerz may impact their future contract negotiations and career trajectories, as teams and players consider the value of such accolades. The award may also inspire other teams to focus on developing and recognizing their offensive linemen.
