Denver Broncos cornerback Pat Surtain II has recognized the intelligence and potential of rookie Jahdae Barron but emphasizes that the young player still has room to grow. The Broncos drafted Barron 20th overall to strengthen their secondary alongside Surtain, hoping he can contribute quickly as the team prepares for the new <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL season.
Pat Surtain II applauds Barron’s understanding of the game
During training camp, Pat Surtain II spoke to Kay Adams about Barron’s grasp of defensive schemes and his awareness on the field. Surtain highlighted Barron’s ability to read coverages and offensive tendencies, calling him a smart player who often positions himself correctly. Still, Surtain pointed out that Barron, as a rookie, has areas to improve.
“I think his ability to his IQ. I think he understands coverages and in a unique way to understand offensive tendencies as well too,” Surtain said on Up & Adams. “I think he’s smart out there. He understands what’s coming. He being at the right spot at the right time. So he looks like a vet out there, you know? But obviously, still more work to be done on his side, obviously being a rookie.”
—Pat Surtain II, Broncos cornerback
Barron brings experience from his five years at Texas, where he was regarded as a shutdown corner able to cover multiple roles in the secondary. Last season, Barron posted 67 tackles, 11 pass defenses, one sack, and five interceptions. The Broncos expect him to make an immediate impact in his rookie season despite the challenges of transitioning to the NFL.
High expectations set for Broncos defense led by Surtain
Pat Surtain II, who earned the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award last season, serves as the leader of Denver’s defense. Surtain believes the Broncos’ personnel has the potential to be among the greatest defensive units in NFL history, but underscores the necessity of consistent hard work on the field.
“It’s unreal,” Surtain said of the talent on the defense, via SI. “I think we have the abiity to be mentioned in history amongst the greats. But you can’t talk about it, you’ve gotta be about it. And that’s all about putting in the work every day, everybody flying around to the ball making plays. But with our personnel … when you have that much talent on the defensive side, the sky’s the limit.”
—Pat Surtain II, Broncos cornerback
Alongside Surtain and Barron, key defensive players include Riley Moss, Zach Allen, Brandon Jones, Jonathan Cooper, and Nik Bonitto. The Broncos hope this core will fulfill the high expectations placed on the team’s defense as they open the season at home against the Tennessee Titans on September 7.
Looking ahead to Barron’s rookie season impact
While Pat Surtain II’s praise offers confidence in Jahdae Barron’s football intelligence and readiness, the emphasis on continued development reflects the challenges rookies face in adapting to the NFL. The Broncos will rely on Barron to help secure their secondary, working closely with veteran leaders like Surtain to form a dominant defensive unit.
If the Broncos’ defense performs as expected, supported by Barron’s growth, they could establish themselves as one of the league’s top defensive teams this season. Success in this area will be critical as Denver aims to advance deep into the playoffs and contend for a championship.