Despite the Denver Broncos surpassing all preseason expectations placed on them, they still can’t seem to earn their rightful respect. Pro Football Focus (PFF) released their Third-Quarter All-Pro Team, and the only Bronco to make it was superstar cornerback Patrick Surtain II, though a quarter of the season is still left to play.
Opponents have learned their lesson: Don’t throw Surtain’s way.
“The highest-graded cornerback in football through the first 13 weeks of the season, Surtain has allowed just 214 yards on 26 receptions so far this year. Despite seeing just 36 targets on the season, he has still managed to record three interceptions and four pass breakups,” PFF’s Gordon McGuinness wrote.
Surtain has routinely gone up against opponents’ No. 1 receivers this season. The list includes DK Metcalf (Seattle Seahawks), George Pickens (Pittsburgh Steelers), Mike Evans (Tampa Bay Buccaneers), Garrett Wilson (New York Jets), Brock Bowers (Las Vegas Raiders), and Drake London (Atlanta Falcons). According to the publication, he has only given up one touchdown and 214 yards in the 720 snaps he’s appeared in.
Patrick Surtain II weekly victims list:
🔒 DK Metcalf: 29 yards allowed
🔒 George Pickens: 16 yards allowed
🔒 Mike Evans: 8 yards allowed
🔒 Garrett Wilson: 22 yards allowed pic.twitter.com/TZD9EboLmu— Zack Kelberman (@KelbermanNFL) October 1, 2024
Surtain is also making a strong case for Defensive Player of the Year. FanDuel currently lists him as the second favorite, with odds of +650. Only Pittsburgh Steeler TJ Watt, the current favorite at -190, has higher odds. While it’s historically difficult for a cornerback to win this award, Surtain’s exceptional performance this season is challenging the norm.
Linebacker Nik Bonitto was the most head-scratching snub from PFF’s list. The young linebacker has tallied 11 sacks through 13 games, showcasing his ability to pressure the quarterback. This total puts him at the second-most sacks in the league, only behind Cincinnati Bengals Trey Hendrickson. His highlight-reel performance against the Cleveland Browns on Monday Night Football, which included a sack and an interception return for a touchdown, showcased his elite playmaking skills on a national stage.
With four games remaining, there is still plenty of opportunity for players to join Surtain in the ranks. On Sunday, the Denver Broncos face a pivotal matchup against the Indianapolis Colts. A win could significantly boost their playoff chances to 91%, while a loss would drop them to 51%. The Colts’ quarterback, Anthony Richardson, has struggled with turnovers, presenting an opportunity for Denver’s defense to shine and secure a crucial victory, as well as make a name for themselves.
Per @NextGenStats, the Broncos currently have a 75% chance to make the playoffs. If they defeat the Colts, their chances significantly improve to a 91% chance. If they lose, their chances drop to 51%.
A lot is at stake in Denver this Sunday.
— Amir Farrell (@BroncosAve) December 10, 2024