Patrick Surtain II: The NFL’s Best Cornerback Earns AFC Defensive Player of the Month…
Patrick Surtain II, often referred to as PS2, continues to solidify his status as the best cornerback in the NFL. The Denver Broncos’ young star has been an anchor for their defense since entering the league in 2021, and his stellar performance in November has earned him the honor of AFC Defensive Player of the Month. For fans of the Broncos and football enthusiasts alike, this recognition comes as no surprise. Here’s why Surtain is not only deserving of this accolade but is also redefining what it means to be an elite cornerback in today’s NFL.
A Month to Remember
During the month of November, Surtain was at the peak of his game, showcasing an unmatched blend of athleticism, intelligence, and instinct. His performances helped the Broncos continue their remarkable turnaround after a shaky start to the season. Over the past four games, Surtain has been a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks, consistently locking down top receivers, forcing turnovers, and providing critical stops in key moments.
Statistically, Surtain’s November was nothing short of elite. He recorded multiple interceptions, including one that sealed a victory for Denver in dramatic fashion. His pass deflections came at pivotal moments, often shifting momentum in favor of the Broncos. Quarterbacks targeting his coverage completed a minuscule percentage of their passes, further highlighting his dominance.
Beyond the numbers, Surtain’s impact on the field has been palpable. Offensive coordinators have to account for his presence on every play, and many quarterbacks simply avoid throwing in his direction. This ability to take away half the field is a hallmark of the game’s greatest cornerbacks, and Surtain does it as well as anyone.
The Making of an Elite Cornerback
Surtain’s journey to NFL stardom was almost inevitable. The son of former Pro Bowl cornerback Patrick Surtain Sr., PS2 grew up immersed in the game. From a young age, he displayed a natural aptitude for football, combining his father’s tutelage with his own relentless work ethic.
After a standout career at Alabama under Nick Saban, one of the most respected defensive minds in football, Surtain entered the NFL as the ninth overall pick in the 2021 draft. Even as a rookie, he showed flashes of greatness, quickly adapting to the speed and complexity of professional football. By his second season, he was already being mentioned among the league’s top cornerbacks.
What sets Surtain apart is his rare combination of size, speed, and technique. At 6-foot-2 and 202 pounds, he has the physicality to match up with bigger receivers, but he’s also quick and agile enough to stick with the fastest players in the league. His footwork is impeccable, his instincts are sharp, and his understanding of the game is advanced beyond his years.
Broncos’ Defensive Resurgence
The Broncos’ defense, once a hallmark of the franchise, has seen its ups and downs in recent years. But with Surtain leading the secondary, they’re regaining their reputation as one of the league’s toughest units. November was a perfect example of this resurgence, as Denver’s defense made life miserable for some of the NFL’s most potent offenses.
Surtain’s role in this turnaround cannot be overstated. His ability to shut down the opponent’s best receiver allows the rest of the defense to play more aggressively. It frees up pass rushers to focus on pressuring the quarterback and gives safeties more freedom to roam and make plays.
Against teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills, Surtain’s performances were crucial. Facing quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen, who thrive on exploiting mismatches, Surtain consistently rose to the occasion. His coverage forced Mahomes and Allen to look elsewhere, often leading to stalled drives and turnovers.
The Respect of Peers and Opponents
One of the most telling signs of Surtain’s greatness is the respect he commands from his peers and opponents. Players and coaches across the league have sung his praises, with many labeling him the best cornerback in the game today. Even All-Pro receivers have acknowledged the challenge of going up against him, citing his discipline, technique, and competitiveness.
Veteran Broncos safety Justin Simmons recently described Surtain as “a generational talent” and “the kind of player you build a defense around.” Coming from a respected leader like Simmons, this is high praise but it’s also entirely justified.
Opposing quarterbacks, meanwhile, have learned the hard way not to test Surtain. His ability to anticipate routes and break on the ball is unparalleled, and his hands are as reliable as many wide receivers’. When a pass comes his way, there’s a good chance it’s ending up in his hands or at the very least, on the ground.
Beyond the Stats: Surtain’s Intangibles
While Surtain’s physical abilities and statistical achievements are impressive, his intangibles are what truly set him apart. He’s a consummate professional, known for his humility, work ethic, and commitment to improvement. Teammates and coaches often speak of his dedication to film study and his desire to master every aspect of his craft.
Surtain’s leadership has also been on display. Despite being just 24 years old, he’s already a cornerstone of the Broncos’ locker room. His calm demeanor and steady presence inspire confidence in those around him, and his ability to lead by example has made him a favorite among teammates and fans alike.
The Path Ahead
As the 2024 season progresses, Surtain’s dominance shows no signs of slowing down. With the Broncos firmly in the playoff hunt, his contributions will be crucial down the stretch. Whether it’s making a game-changing interception, shutting down a star receiver, or simply providing consistent excellence, Surtain will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in Denver’s success.
Looking ahead, Surtain’s trajectory suggests he’s on track for a Hall of Fame career. If he continues at this pace, he could eventually be mentioned in the same breath as legends like Deion Sanders, Darrelle Revis, and Champ Bailey. For now, though, he remains focused on the task at hand: helping the Broncos win and cementing his status as the best cornerback in the NFL.
Conclusion
Patrick Surtain II’s recognition as AFC Defensive Player of the Month is a testament to his incredible talent and impact on the field. In just his third season, he’s already established himself as the gold standard for cornerbacks in the modern NFL. For Broncos fans, having a player like Surtain is a reason to be excited not just for this season, but for many years to come.
As the league continues to evolve, Surtain’s combination of physical tools, football IQ, and unrelenting drive ensures that he’ll remain at the forefront of NFL defenses. And while his peers and opponents may not be surprised by his latest accolade, they certainly have every reason to be impressed. PS2 is the real deal, and the best may still be yet to come.
