Denver Broncos: 3 surprising stats through first five games

Garett Bolles’ lack of penalties

Up to this point in his career, Garett Bolles and the word penalty go hand in hand. Broncos fans have come to expect that No. 72 is going to get at least one flag thrown against him in each game. It has led to media personalities such as Mark Schlereth trashing him on the air.

But those joles have been put to rest this season because Bolles has only been called for two penalties thus far this season and it is clear that his play has improved. Offensive line coach Mike Munchak likely has a lot to do with that.

Having only two penalties called against him is huge for Bolles. It shows that he has developed better mental focus and better technique as he grows into his left tackle position.

Not only has Bolles been improved, but you can also make the case that he has been one of the best players on the team through five games. No, I’m not kidding, it’s an easy case to make right now.

Should this level of play continue and the penalties stay to a minimum, Bolles should be rewarded with a new contract this offseason. Many fans are likely not going to agree with that, but the Broncos invested a first-round pick in him and he was not a finished product when he entered the league.

He has shown a dedication to his craft and his improvement this season is commendable. All the Bolles jokes should be shelved for the foreseeable future.