Two Broncos among finalists for new Protector Award

Field Level Media
30 Jan 2026, 01:25 GMT+10

(Photo credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images)

Two Denver Broncos offensive linemen were among the six finalists announced Thursday for the NFL's inaugural Protector of the Year Award.

Denver left tackle Garrett Bolles and right guard Quinn Meinerz are joined by Miami Dolphins center Aaron Brewer, Kansas City Chiefs center Creed Humphrey, Detroit Lions right tackle Penei Sewell and Chicago Bears left guard Joe Thuney.

The winner will be announced at the NFL Honors ceremony on Feb. 5 in San Francisco, three days before the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks meet in Super Bowl LX in Santa Clara, Calif.

The award, championed by veteran Buffalo Bills tackle Dion Dawkins, recognizes the 2025 season's most outstanding offensive lineman.

'The offensive line carries the weight of the game. Durability, endurance, leadership and consistency define their work, even when the spotlight rarely finds them,' said Troy Vincent Sr., NFL executive vice president of football operations. 'Protector of the Year is about recognizing the vital role these tremendous athletes play and celebrating excellence where it starts, up front.'

The winner will be determined by an elite selection committee of NFL greats: LeCharles Bentley, Jason Kelce, Shaun O'Hara, Orlando Pace, Will Shields and Andrew Whitworth.

The panel evaluated players on such factors as quality of competition, leadership, durability and consistency, based on film reviews and advanced analytics.

--Field Level Media

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