What's Happening?
Denver Broncos players Garett Bolles and Quinn Meinerz were finalists for the NFL's inaugural Protector of the Year award but ultimately did not win. The award was given to Chicago Bears guard Joe Thuney. Bolles, recognized as Pass Blocker of the Year by Pro Football Focus, and Meinerz, who led all NFL guards in overall grading, both earned AP All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors for their performances in the 2025 season. Despite their contributions to the Broncos' offensive line, which allowed the fewest sacks among 17-game starters, they were not selected for the award.
Why It's Important?
The snub of Bolles and Meinerz highlights the competitive nature of NFL awards and the challenges of gaining recognition despite strong individual performances. Their exclusion from
the award could impact their motivation and the team's morale. However, their achievements in pass blocking and run blocking remain significant, contributing to the Broncos' offensive success. This situation underscores the importance of individual accolades in professional sports and the potential influence on player contracts and team dynamics.
