The Denver Broncos have hit multiple home runs with their 2021 NFL Draft class, and that’s especially true of their first two picks — Patrick Surtain II and Javonte Williams — who look like burgeoning superstars.
Each experienced one of their most impressive performances on Sunday as they romped over the Los Angeles Chargers.
Surtain was the hero of the day, tallying two interceptions and two passes defensed, but even that doesn’t capture his impact on the game. Following the ineptitude of Drew Lock, the Chargers had all the momentum and were driving to tie up the game, only for Surtain to intercept Herbert in the endzone.
The interception helped spark the offense, leading to a 14-point swing.
Then, on the very next Chargers possession — which was about to enter Broncos territory — Surtain intercepted a deflected pass and returned it for a touchdown, extending Denver’s lead to 21 and ending the game.
Meanwhile, Williams was the offensive MVP of the day.
Williams led the team in all-purpose yards (111), receiving yards (57), receptions (three), and scored a touchdown. He also had the most impressive and important offensive play, a 42-yard scamper in the fourth quarter that helped set up the team’s final offensive score.
As a result of their impressive performances, both have been nominated for this week’s Rookie of the Week award, but they’ll face stiff competition.
The other nominees are Mac Jones, who continues to look like the best of the rookie quarterbacks; Elijah Mitchell, who went for 168 scrimmage yards and a touchdown; Jaylen Waddle, who tallied 137 yards and a touchdown; and Jaelen Phillips, who recorded three sacks and deflected a pass.
The award is determined by a fan vote, so if you want to help Williams or Surtain win the award, you can do so here.
