The Broncos announced Tuesday that starting left tackle Garett Bolles has been named the team’s nominee for the 2023 Walter Payton Man of the Year Award.
The Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year honors a player for his leadership on the field and in the community. Each team selects one nominee, and the national winner will be announced during NFL Honors on Feb. 8.
Bolles has made a consistent impact in the community during his time in Denver, being named the Broncos’ Community Impact Award winner in 2022 and a Broncos Community Ambassador in 2021.
Bolles’ community outreach has been geared toward providing mentorship to youth in the juvenile justice system. He is an active participant in a juvenile probation court mentorship program in Arapahoe County and has made regular visits to the Marvin W. Foote Youth Services Center.
As part of the mentorship program, Bolles attends monthly court hearings to show additional support. He also records personalized videos of encouragement based on letters submitted to him.
Outside of Bolles’ work for the juvenile justice system, he has his own foundation — the GB3 Foundation — that works with youth with learning disabilities.
Bolles, a first-round pick in 2017, was limited to five games last season due to injury but has been a stable presence on Denver’s offensive line in 2023, starting in all 12 games while allowing two sacks and 19 pressures, according to Pro Football Focus.
Bolles’ best game of the season came against the Cleveland Browns in Week 12 when he didn’t allow star edge rusher Myles Garrett to record a sack.
Manning to receive Mizel Award: Former Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning has been named the recipient of the 2024 Mizel Institute Community Enrichment Award, which recognizes the Hall of Famer’s contributions and commitment to the community, both on and off the field.
“Peyton Manning is a Denver icon. His influence and generosity have changed countless lives in our city,” Denver Mayor Mike Johnston said in a statement. “We are grateful that he came to Denver, and even more grateful that he stayed to make it his home.”
Manning’s PeyBack Foundation has supported numerous charitable organizations in the area, focusing on youth education, leadership and wellness. He will be honored at the Mizel Institute’s annual event on May 22, 2024.
“Peyton Manning’s impact on our community extends far beyond his incredible football career,” Colorado Gov. Jared Polis said. “His commitment to improving the lives of others has left a lasting impact on Colorado, and I am thrilled to celebrate his accomplishments with the Mizel Institute Community Enrichment Award.”
