The Denver Broncos are in a very strong position as a franchise. After the Russell Wilson fiasco, there was reasonable concern over how well built the team could be. But after strong draft classes, Denver is 9-2 and in great shape to win the AFC West.
But the 2025 season isn’t the only reason to be excited. This Broncos roster is also locked up for some time. Bo Nix is on a rookie deal, opening the door for key veterans to sign extensions, with the most noteworthy part of the roster being the offensive line.
As Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team points out, the Broncos have signed the entire offensive line to long-term contracts after this Wattenberg deal. But, beyond the per-year numbers, the Broncos’ offensive line is well compensated, totaling $341 million.
How Broncos have invested $341 million into Bo Nix’s protection unit
Right tackle Mike McGlinchy is signed through 2027 on a five-year, $87.5 million deal, while left tackle Garrett Bolles is signed through 2028 on a four-year, $82 million deal.
Quinn Meinerz, Denver’s right guard, is signed through 2028 on a four-year, $72 million deal. Left guard Ben Powers is signed through 2026 on a four-year, $51.5 million deal. And most recently, Wattenberg is signed through 2029 on a four-year, $48 million deal.
Between those five players, the Broncos now have a total $341 million invested in the offensive line. Protecting their young quarterback is paramount to success, and Denver’s rewarded its offensive line for doing so over the last year and a half.
Wattenberg, their center, is the last member of the offensive line to sign his new deal. He’s deserving of this quality pay raise, as he’s been a solid starter for Denver this season.
The total amount comes to $341 million, but going by the per-year number, the entire offensive line is making at least $12 million per year.
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Wattenberg is last at $12 million, while Powers is at $13 million, McGlinchy is at $17.5 million, Meinerz is at $18 million, and Bolles is at $20.5 million per season.
It’s a very expensive offensive line in Denver, but with Nix on a rookie contract and the lack of expensive offensive weapons, it has cleared the way for Denver to heavily invest in their offensive line.
The Broncos will have to make a decision next season on what to do with Powers, as 2026 will be his last on his current deal. George Paton and the Broncos could spend even more on the offensive line once Powers is gone, or on a new deal.
But for now, thanks to the Wattenberg signing, the Broncos have spent $341 million total to protect their quarterback and open lanes for their running game. It’s worked this season, and is a strategy Denver will likely continue to employ going forward.
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