As the Denver Broncos navigate a tricky financial landscape with the looming cap hits from Russell Wilson’s hefty contract, they may be looking to move on from some of their higher-priced veterans, including offensive tackle Garett Bolles. Bolles, who is in the final season of his 4-year, $68 million contract extension, has been a key player on the Broncos’ offensive line since being drafted in 2017. However, with the Broncos needing to manage their cap space carefully heading into 2025, they could be considering a future without him — and that could mean replacing him with a rising star from the Big Ten.
According to Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine, the Broncos might target Aireontae Ersery, the standout offensive tackle from the University of Minnesota, in the 2025 NFL Draft. Ersery, a 6-foot-6, 330-pound powerhouse, has made a name for himself as one of the top offensive linemen in college football, and his skill set could be a perfect fit for the Broncos’ long-term offensive line needs.
Aireontae Ersery: A Rising Star
Ersery’s journey to becoming a top NFL prospect is a unique one. The Kansas City native didn’t start playing football until his junior year of high school, but by the time he graduated, he had developed into a 3-star recruit. After redshirting in 2021, he earned All-Big Ten honors in both 2022 and 2023 and has started 33 consecutive games for the Minnesota Golden Gophers, including every game in the last two seasons. His growth into a top-tier tackle has been swift and impressive, with many scouts projecting him to be a day-one starter in the NFL.
Scouting Report on Ersery:
Ersery is known for his impressive athleticism and physicality. According to Bleacher Report’s scouting department, he possesses a well-rounded build with long limbs and solid play strength. He is particularly effective in the zone running game, where his understanding of combo blocks and ability to cut off defenders and release on time sets him apart. Ersery’s quickness in gaining ground laterally and his ability to climb to the second level of the defense are key attributes that make him a versatile blocker. Additionally, his competitive toughness and ability to finish blocks with power make him a strong candidate to protect an NFL quarterback’s blindside.
Ersery’s technical skills, combined with his raw athleticism, make him an intriguing option for a team like the Broncos, who need a reliable tackle to anchor their offensive line for years to come.
Garett Bolles’ Impact on the Broncos
Since joining the Broncos as the 20th overall pick in the 2017 draft, Garett Bolles has been a reliable presence on the offensive line. He earned NFL All-Pro honors in 2020 and has been an ironman, playing every game in 2023 after recovering from a season-ending injury in 2022. Bolles played all 1,072 offensive snaps last season, proving his durability and consistency.
However, despite Bolles’ success, there are reasons the Broncos might consider moving on after this season. With Bolles turning 33 years old in May 2025, his age could start to become a concern. While some offensive tackles, like Trent Williams, continue to play at a high level into their 30s, there is an undeniable wear-and-tear factor that might push the Broncos to look for a younger, more cost-effective option. As Bolles enters the 2025 free-agent market, he is expected to be one of the most coveted tackles available, with several teams likely to compete for his services.
Financial Considerations for the Broncos
With Bolles’ contract set to expire and the Broncos already dealing with a difficult financial situation due to Russell Wilson’s contract, the team might look to invest in a younger player like Ersery to avoid committing too much cap space to an aging veteran. Ersery could provide the Broncos with a high-upside, affordable option at left tackle, potentially replacing Bolles and securing the left side of the offensive line for the long haul.
If Bolles does leave in free agency or the Broncos decide not to bring him back on a long-term deal, the team will need to quickly find a replacement. Ersery could be the perfect candidate for that role, offering both the size and athleticism to thrive in the NFL while allowing the Broncos to keep their finances more flexible.
What’s Next for the Broncos?
As the Broncos approach the 2025 offseason, the team will need to carefully weigh its options. The potential departure of Bolles could force their hand in the draft, and with a strong 2025 class of offensive linemen, Ersery could be a key target for a franchise looking to build a new era on the offensive line. Whether they extend Bolles or move forward with a younger option like Ersery, the Broncos will need to solidify their protection for quarterback Russell Wilson to ensure the team can compete for years to come.
The Broncos’ decision to either keep Bolles or invest in a young star like Ersery could define the team’s offensive line for the next decade — and could go a long way in determining whether they can finally return to the playoffs.