Patrick Surtain II has once again earned recognition for his outstanding performance as he is named the NFL’s top cornerback by the Associated Press. This accolade comes as he enters his fifth season with the Denver Broncos, highlighting his continued excellence in the league. The Associated Press award follows his recent Defensive Player of the Year title, an honor that only a handful of cornerbacks in NFL history have achieved.
Details of the Associated Press Voting and Results
A panel of eight Associated Press voters evaluated players across various positions, ultimately selecting Surtain as the premier cornerback in the NFL. Five of these voters ranked him as the number one cornerback, while three placed him second. Those second-place votes were split between Sauce Gardner and Cooper DeJean. DeJean’s strong rookie year drew attention, though it did not reach Surtain’s level of consistent performance. Gardner’s placement was more surprising, given his struggles last season, where his play was considered average compared to other corners.
Surtain’s Role and Influence on the Broncos’ Defense
Surtain’s impact extends beyond his statistics, which include four interceptions and allowing only 37 completions on 65 targets last season. His ability to consistently contain top receivers has allowed the Broncos’ defensive coordinator, Vance Joseph, to implement a more aggressive defensive scheme. The difference in the Broncos’ defense when Surtain is off the field reveals how crucial his presence is to the unit’s overall effectiveness.
Prospects for Surtain’s Continued Success
While cornerback performance often fluctuates, Surtain is at a stage in his career where decline is unlikely in the near term. Analysts project that he has between three and seven years remaining at a high level, as many corners typically experience a dip in performance between ages 28 and 33. Maintaining his elite status will depend partly on whether the Broncos’ aggressive defensive front can continue to succeed in pressuring opposing quarterbacks.
The Broncos set a franchise record with 63 sacks last year, leading the league, but there is uncertainty about their ability to maintain that pressure. Should the pass rush weaken, opportunities for Surtain to excel in coverage may diminish, potentially impacting his effectiveness.
Significance of Surtain’s Recognition for the Broncos and NFL
Pat Surtain II’s designation as the NFL’s top cornerback emphasizes his ascent to the league’s elite defensive players. This latest honor from the Associated Press reinforces his value to the Denver Broncos and signifies his growing legacy. As he prepares for the upcoming season, the team and its supporters anticipate that Surtain will continue to anchor their defense with consistency and skill, shaping both his career and the Broncos’ defensive reputation.