Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
SALT LAKE CITY — Another member of the University of Utah football program has decided to forego his senior season to pursue an NFL career.
Junior offensive lineman Garett Bolles announced his decision on Twitter Wednesday to forego his senior season to pursue an NFL career. Bolles said committing to Utah a year prior was “the best decision I ever made” and that he hoped his desire to play in the NFL would be a “similar life-changing announcement.”
“My time at the University of Utah has been an incredible experience,” Bolles said in a statement on Twitter. “I am extremely grateful for Coach (Kyle) Whittingham, the entire coaching staff, and the support staff of the football program for molding me as a person, player and student-athlete.”
Bolles added that he was “particularly grateful” for offensive line coach Jim Harding, who was a “valued advisor” and “an essential part of my support team.”
Bolles transferred to the University of Utah prior to the 2016 season after playing two years at Snow College. Bolles quickly made an impact at Utah, earning the starting role and becoming a key player in the success of the offensive line.
With his success, Bolles quickly jumped up the projected draft boards and was recently ranked the third best offensive lineman by nfldraftscout.com and the third best offensive tackle by CBS Sports. Bolles could potentially be a late first round to second round pick, according to estimates.
Although his draft stock continued to rise, Bolles said the decision was “an extremely difficult decision,” but that playing in the NFL “has been one of my ultimate goals and I believe it's time to pursue it and provide for my family.”
Bolles’ wife, Natalie, recently gave birth to their son, Kingston. Following the Foster Farms Bowl, Bolles told KSL.com that he wouldn't be making a decision about his future until he could go home and be with his wife and son.
1 year ago today Garett committed to the U. Exactly 1 year later he has declared for the NFL Draft. Proud is an understatement! #AlwaysAUtepic.twitter.com/BO2hyR14Sl
— Natalie Bolles (@n_bolles) January 5, 2017
“Being a part of this team was something special that I will always treasure,” he said in his Twitter statement. “I am a better person today because of my time here and I am blessed for the opportunities that were provided to my family and me.
“For all the fans who cheered us on this year, know that no matter where I go I will forever be a Ute,” he added. “A Utah man am I!”
On Monday, junior safety Marcus Williams became the first underclassman from Utah to declare early for the NFL.
Very excited to watch the journey ahead for @gbolles74 and his family! He represented OBLOCK and UTAHFOOTBALL in a first class manner!
— Jim Harding (@coachjharding) January 5, 2017
Couldn't be happier for this #HometownHero and his family!! Been through so much, but has come out a stronger and better man because of it! https://t.co/4XIqhw8vCB
— Morgan Scalley (@SafetyPride) January 5, 2017
