Broncos' Garett Bolles Wins NFLPA's Alan Page Community Award

Bolles reflects on his journey from troubled youth to community leader and NFL star.

Feb. 3, 2026 at 7:15pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Denver Broncos offensive lineman Garett Bolles was named the winner of the NFLPA's 2026 Alan Page Community Award, honoring his profound dedication to impacting his local community. Bolles, who overcame a troubled youth to become a standout player, has focused his efforts on helping children with speech disorders and youth in the juvenile justice system in Colorado.

Why it matters

Bolles' journey from a troubled teenager to an NFL star and community leader serves as an inspiring story of redemption and the power of mentorship. His work with underprivileged youth highlights the important role professional athletes can play in giving back and making a difference in their local communities.

The details

Bolles was recognized for his work remodeling classrooms at the Marvin W. Foote Youth Services Center in Centennial, Colorado to create a more joyful environment for the youth. He has also partnered with a speech pathologist to launch the Bjorem and Bolles Apraxia Training Center in Parker. Bolles' community efforts come after a breakout 2025 season where he earned his first First-Team All-Pro selection.

  • Bolles was named the NFLPA's 2026 Alan Page Community Award winner on Tuesday.
  • In 2023, Bolles earned his first Walter Payton Man of the Year nomination.
  • Bolles signed an $82 million extension with the Broncos in 2024.

The players

Garett Bolles

Denver Broncos offensive lineman who was named the winner of the NFLPA's 2026 Alan Page Community Award for his work helping children with speech disorders and youth in the juvenile justice system in Colorado.

Greg Freeman

Bolles' adoptive father who took him in as a troubled 19-year-old and helped guide him to success.

Jennie Bjorem

Speech pathologist who partnered with Bolles to launch the Bjorem and Bolles Apraxia Training Center in Parker, Colorado.

Zach Strief

Broncos assistant coach.

Sean Payton

Broncos head coach.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I want to encourage them. Give them a why. Why they do what they do.”

— Garett Bolles (NFLPA)

“There's some shock to it. But he's always had a heart worth of gold.”

— Greg Freeman, Bolles' adoptive father (The Denver Post)

“You talk about a legacy, you talk about – from the start to the finish. And my quote is – it doesn't matter how you start, matters how you finish. So continue pushing, continue to be the best version of yourself. And you never know when your name is going to get called. I just hung down. I just kept working, I just kept putting in the work. And it's paid off.”

— Garett Bolles (NFLPA)

“I caught a touchdown. But it's gonna happen (Tuesday). So then everybody will be able to see it. And then coach (Zach) Strief and coach SP, back at home, he'll know that I can catch the ball. So don't ever doubt me again.”

— Garett Bolles (The Denver Post)

What’s next

Bolles will receive a $100,000 donation from the NFLPA to his GB3 Foundation, which he plans to use to further expand his community initiatives.

The takeaway

Bolles' journey from a troubled youth to an NFL star and community leader is a powerful testament to the transformative power of mentorship and giving back. His work with underprivileged children in Colorado serves as an inspiring example of how professional athletes can use their platform to make a meaningful difference in their local communities.