Two Denver Broncos offensive linemen, Garett Bolles and Quinn Meinerz, have been named finalists for the first-ever Protector of the Year Award. The NFL announced Thursday that both players are among six finalists for the new honor, which will be presented during the NFL Honors event on February 5.
Bolles and Meinerz were also recognized as AP first-team All-Pros this season. The Broncos are notable for being the only team with two players selected as finalists for this award.
The NFL stated that the Protector of the Year Award “shines a spotlight on a portion group that is essential to team success yet often underrepresented in traditional awards.” Finalists were chosen by a panel of six former NFL All-Pros who evaluated candidates based on competition level, reliability to teammates, durability, consistency throughout the season, video review, and football analytics.
According to NextGen Stats, Bolles allowed the lowest pressure rate among all left tackles in the league during the 2025 season. Meinerz recorded the second-lowest pressure rate among right guards.
Other finalists include Aaron Brewer from Miami, Creed Humphrey from Kansas City, Penei Sewell from Detroit, and Joe Thuney from Chicago.
