Garett Bolles nearly threw away his NFL career. How a mystery coach helped turn him into Broncos’ cornerstone. – The Denver Post

Garett Bolles nearly threw away his NFL career. How a mystery coach helped turn him into Broncos’ cornerstone.  The Denver Post

Garett Bolles went from drawing criticism from former Broncos general manager John Elway to being on the verge of a second consecutive All-Pro season. Seven years ago, John Elway publicly questioned whether Garrett Bolles knew what a holding penalty was. Bolles not only heard the criticism — he knew his time in the NFL was slipping away “I was on my way out of the league,” Bolles told The Denver Post. The Broncos’ left tackle was flagged for 15 holding penalties as a rookie in 2017 and another 14 in 2018, leading the NFL both seasons. A few games into his third season, the organization was growing impatient. “Does he know what holding is?

Does he know what he can and can’t do?” Elway said at the time. Denver can take Bolles for granted now. Having one of the best tackles in football protecting a franchise quarterback is a luxury most organizations aren’t afforded. At one point, that seemed impossible. Bolles is off to another strong start this season. He’s allowed just three pressures in 141 pass-blocking sets, according to Pro Football Focus. He hasn’t surrendered a sack, and quarterback Bo Nix has been hit only once because of pressure allowed by his left tackle. Bolles is also the only left tackle in the league with three games this season