SAN FRANCISCO, California — Garett Bolles, the Denver Broncos left tackle, was named the 2026 recipient of the NFL Players Association’s Alan Page Community Award on Tuesday, recognizing his exceptional commitment to positively impacting his community. This accolade comes during a week filled with NFL festivities, including the upcoming NFL Honors ceremony where Bolles is a contender for both the Protector of the Year Award and the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award.
Bolles’ recognition highlights his ongoing involvement with children facing speech disorders and his efforts to support youth in the Colorado juvenile justice system, particularly in Arapahoe County. His dedication reflects a desire to transform difficult environments into spaces that inspire hope and joy.
Efforts to Improve Youth Rehabilitation Facilities
During his acceptance speech, Bolles shared his work helping to renovate classrooms at the Marvin W. Foote Youth Services Center in Centennial, Colorado. By replacing the “white walls” and “brown carpet” with brighter surroundings, he aimed to create a more uplifting atmosphere for incarcerated youth. His intention was to bring a sense of encouragement and possibility to young people in challenging circumstances.
Give them a why. Why they do what they do.
?Garett Bolles, NFL Player
Personal Journey Shaping Community Commitment
Bolles’ dedication to community service is deeply rooted in his own experiences. When he was 19, after facing homelessness and personal trials, he was taken in by Greg and Emily Freeman, who adopted him and provided stability. Greg Freeman recounted moments when young Bolles awaited rejection, but instead found unwavering support, a foundation that helped him redefine his path.
On stage in San Francisco, the Freemans stood alongside Bolles, his wife Emily, and their children—symbolizing the growth and transformation Bolles has achieved beyond the football field.
But he’s always had a heart worth of gold.
?Greg Freeman, Adoptive Father
Community Partnerships and Recognition
Following the award announcement, the NFLPA pledged a $100,000 donation to Bolles’ GB3 Foundation. The foundation recently collaborated with speech pathologist Jennie Bjorem to establish the Bjorem and Bolles Apraxia Training Center in Parker, Colorado, enhancing services for children with speech impairments.
Bolles’ influence in Colorado extends beyond philanthropy; his on-field performance peaked during the 2025 NFL season, earning him his first First-Team All-Pro selection. Once criticized as a first-round draft pick for frequent penalties, Bolles’ growth parallels his expanding community impact, a journey beginning earnestly in 2020 when he started his work with the Foote Center.
Balancing Athletic Success and Personal Growth
Bolles articulated the connection between his athletic and personal development, emphasizing perseverance and consistent effort despite early setbacks.
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, NFL Player
Engagement in NFL Events and Highlights
Amid the Super Bowl week celebrations in San Francisco, Bolles took part in an AFC Pro Bowl practice on Monday, marking his first time joining peers in this event. Displaying versatility, he snapped several balls to rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders and caught a touchdown while energized by the festive atmosphere.
I caught a touchdown. But it’s gonna happen (Tuesday), and then everybody will be able to see it.
?Garett Bolles, NFL Player
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, NFL Player
Significance of the Alan Page Award for Bolles
Although Bolles is a candidate at Thursday’s NFL Honors for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award, the Alan Page Community Award already stands as a significant acknowledgment of his efforts off the field. In 2023, Bolles received his first nomination for the Walter Payton award, a distinction his adoptive father, Greg Freeman, noted as more meaningful than even Bolles’ $82 million contract extension signed with Denver in 2024.
To have this family of his grow and become what it is, is really special.
?Greg Freeman, Adoptive Father
Looking Ahead: Bolles’ Evolving Legacy
Garett Bolles’ story exemplifies resilience and the power of community support. By combining professional excellence with a commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable youth, Bolles has set a meaningful example for athletes and citizens alike. The $100,000 contribution to his foundation and the establishment of the Apraxia Training Center underscore the lasting impact of his work in Colorado.
As Bolles continues to balance football success and community involvement, his role as both a leader on the field and a mentor off it is likely to influence many beyond the sports world for years to come.
