Garett Bolles – Proving He Is The Future At Left Tackle

Garett Bolles, first round pick from the 2017 NFL Draft, is making a statement in mini-camp…

Per Cameron Wolfe from The Denver Post: “Bolles saw more first-team reps Tuesday than he has all spring. The coaching staff has made [him] earn his spot in the rotation and he’s finally in the thick of the starter competition as Denver prepares to break for camp.”

Both Garett Bolles and Ty Sambrailo, second round pick from 2015, are competing to earn the starting job protecting the blindside. The Broncos have struggled to cement a starter at left tackle for several seasons, but news of Bolles’ progress is cause for optimism. With the quarterback competition in full swing, solidifying this position is more important than ever.

Bolles has already begun impressing staff as head coach Vance Joseph remarked “he’s made a lot of progress. His talent shows…he’s a first-round pick for a reason.”

As a first rounder, lofty expectations are placed on rookies to perform and contribute immediately at a high level. Bolles appears to be up for the task as he continues to earn more reps with the first team offense. Bolles also has the added bonus of competing opposite of first team All-Pro Von Miller every day in camp.

While Miller tends to terrorize rival offensive lineman, Bolles is benefiting immensely from this baptism by fire. Facing arguably the greatest pass rusher in the NFL is a colossal order, however, it will only help prepare him for the speed and timing of regular season play.

Garett Bolles will continue to be challenged as a first year player in one of the hardest positions in football. He is making it known he is there to win. An article from Jeff Legwold of ESPN indicates his teammates can see this mentality. QB Trevor Siemian states “he’s special; he’s got a really bright future.”  Both Bronco followers as well as Siemian and Paxton Lynch hope this sentiment holds true.

Next: QB Competition: Paxton Lynch vs. Trevor Siemian

As mandatory mini camp concludes, left tackle is one position fans should keep their eye on. When training camp opens later this summer, we will finally see where the tackles rank as they look to prove they are the best candidate to start as the season approaches.