As the Denver Broncos approach 2025, their financial flexibility remains limited due to Russell Wilson’s hefty contract. This tight budget may deter the team from investing in high-cost free agents, even in the case of long-time franchise stalwarts like offensive tackle Garett Bolles.
Bolles, who signed a 4-year, $68 million extension in 2020, is entering the final year of his contract and is likely to become a hot commodity in free agency. Recognizing this, Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine suggests the Broncos could look to the 2025 NFL Draft for a long-term solution, potentially targeting Aireontae Ersery, a 6-foot-6, 330-pound offensive tackle from the University of Minnesota.
“Whether the Broncos sign Bolles to a short-term deal or he chooses to move on, the team needs a long-term strategy,” Ballentine noted. “Drafting Aireontae Ersery would be a solid move. He’s a skilled zone blocker with the length and athleticism required to excel as a starting left tackle in the NFL.”
Aireontae Ersery: From Late Bloomer to Big Ten Standout
Ersery’s football journey began relatively late, starting in his junior year at Ruskin High School in Kansas City, Missouri. Despite the late start, he became a 3-star recruit and committed to Minnesota, where he redshirted in 2021. Since then, he has flourished, earning All-Big Ten honors in back-to-back seasons and starting 33 consecutive games for the Golden Gophers.
According to Bleacher Report’s scouting team, Ersery brings a mix of physicality and finesse. “He possesses a lean, well-rounded build, long limbs, and strong athletic ability. Ersery excels in zone blocking with sharp timing on combo blocks, lateral quickness to cut off defenders, and toughness to set a physical tone.”
Garett Bolles: A Reliable Force on Denver’s Offensive Line
Despite the Broncos’ struggles to meet expectations — they haven’t made the playoffs since 2015 — Garett Bolles has been a steady presence on their offensive line. Drafted 20th overall in 2017, Bolles earned All-Pro honors in 2020 and overcame a season-ending injury in 2022 to play every snap of Denver’s 2023 season.
Now 33, Bolles remains a top-tier left tackle, but age could play a role in how teams approach his future. As Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox observed, “While Bolles’ age is a minor concern, his relatively low wear-and-tear compared to other linemen his age makes him a strong contender in free agency. He’ll likely compete with Ronnie Stanley to be the top tackle on the 2025 market, and with no shortage of tackle-needy teams, Bolles is set to attract significant interest.”
Broncos Face Crucial Decision
As Denver fights to secure a playoff berth in 2024, they’ll soon face a pivotal decision about Bolles’ future. Whether they attempt to retain him or plan for his departure by drafting a promising talent like Ersery, the team’s approach to the left tackle position could significantly shape its trajectory in the coming years.
