The Denver Broncos have exceeded expectations with a 7-5 record and a shot at the AFC playoffs. While Bo Nix and the Broncos offense have been instrumental in their turnaround, their defense has been exceptional through 12 games. In addition to leading the league in sacks with 44, their pass defense has been solid, thanks to All-Pro cornerback Pat Surtain II.
As Pro Football Focus noted, Surtain has limited his assignments to under 25 yards in seven of his ten games in the 2024 NFL season. The defensive back from Alabama has 27 tackles and eight passes defended through 11 games. Surtain also has three interceptions, including a 100-yard pick-six during their first game against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Pat Surtain II has allowed less than 25 yards in 7 of his 10 games this season pic.twitter.com/5LqCROGHZK
— PFF (@PFF) November 26, 2024
The cornerback from Plantation, Florida, is making the Broncos’ four-year, $96 million contract extension look like a sound investment. In addition to his prowess in the defensive secondary, the Broncos rank third in total yards allowed (296) and ninth in passing yards allowed (199.8) per game. Denver is also tied with the Chicago Bears and the Los Angeles Chargers with nine interceptions, the eighth-most in the league.
More importantly, the Broncos can snap their postseason drought, which stretches from 2016. Through Week 12, Denver holds the seventh and final spot in the AFC playoffs. Surtain and the Broncos improve their standing with more victories in their five remaining regular season games, starting with their Week 13 game against the Cleveland Browns.
-Lance Fernandez