Since Patrick Surtain II joined the Denver Broncos, his rivalry with teammate Courtland Sutton in practice has sharpened both players’ skills. Surtain, a two-time All-Pro and the current Defensive Player of the Year, credits this internal competition for their continued development. Meanwhile, Sutton, though less decorated, has gained from these battles and continues to build on his solid career.
Sutton and Surtain’s dynamic goes beyond individual accolades, as their respective roles depend closely on their interactions with others on the field, including the pivotal relationship between quarterback and wide receiver. Despite being in the league since 2018, Sutton has yet to reach his full potential, a fact Surtain openly acknowledges.
Seasoned Offense Veteran Courtland Sutton Is Poised for New Heights
Entering his eighth NFL season, Courtland Sutton has consistently produced, but inconsistencies at quarterback have held him back from reaching his peak. Surtain expressed strong belief that Broncos fans are yet to witness Sutton’s best performances. Speaking at the start of training camp, Surtain said,
“’Court’ is my brother, so every time we come out here, we’re looking to compete and get better. You can just tell each and every year he’s looking to get better himself, so I feel like we haven’t even seen the best of him yet, even though he’s been so great. I think sharpening each other’s craft is going to make each other better each and every day, so I’m looking forward to those battles.”
—Patrick Surtain II, Broncos Cornerback
This competitive spirit foreshadows continued improvement, with both players pushing each other to higher levels during daily practices at Broncos headquarters.
Courtland Sutton’s Career Progress and Challenges
Despite not surpassing 1,000 receiving yards in 2023, Sutton set a personal best with 10 touchdowns that season, benefitting from quarterback Russell Wilson’s passing. His previous campaigns have included two 1,000-yard seasons, notable accomplishments highlighted by strong chemistry with recent first-round draft pick Bo Nix.
Head coach Sean Payton values Sutton’s skill set beyond simple yardage numbers. Sutton is recognized as a reliable possession receiver and a key red-zone threat who consistently turns tough catches into receptions, depending on the quarterback throwing to him. Sutton’s ability to thrive, even amid quarterback instability, showcases his resilience and adaptability.
Contract Status and Team Outlook
Sutton’s current contract is set to expire after this season, and although Broncos management, including GM George Paton and Sean Payton, have spoken positively about his future, no new deal has yet been reached. Paton’s history suggests a contract extension could be finalized during training camp or later in the season, following a pattern of summer signings with key players such as offensive tackle Garett Bolles and linebacker Jonathon Cooper.
Throughout his tenure with the Broncos, Sutton has remained dedicated to the team despite organizational struggles and a prolonged playoff drought. His professionalism endured even when quarterback changes hampered offensive consistency. Sutton earned his only Pro Bowl selection in 2019 while catching passes from three different starting quarterbacks, demonstrating his versatility and reliability.
However, Sutton’s career faced a major setback in 2020 when he tore his ACL in Week 2, sidelining him for the season. It took nearly two years for him to fully regain his form, but his return has been steady, reinforcing his commitment to the team and mentoring younger receivers in the Broncos’ receiving room.
Mutual Influence Between Surtain and Sutton Strengthens Broncos’ Core
The competitive environment between Surtain and Sutton benefits both players. Surtain’s rapid rise to prominence as an NFL superstar owes, in part, to the consistent challenge Sutton provides on the practice field. Conversely, Sutton’s game sharpens through facing one of the league’s top cornerbacks daily. This mutual improvement creates a foundational strength for the Broncos’ defense and offense.
As Broncos Country watches training camp unfold, this dynamic promises to enhance the team’s performance in the upcoming season. The evolving partnership between these two veterans symbolizes the team’s larger goals of rebuilding and returning to playoff contention.