Denver Broncos cornerback Patrick Surtain II has been named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year by the Pro Football Writers Association, a well-deserved recognition for the former Alabama star’s dominant performance during the 2024 season. Surtain, just in his third year in the league, has established himself as one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL, drawing widespread acclaim for his lockdown coverage and game-changing plays.
Surtain’s standout season featured multiple key interceptions, including a crucial pick-six that helped tilt the momentum in several of the Broncos’ wins. His ability to shut down top wide receivers has made him a cornerstone of Denver’s defensive unit, and his skills were on full display as he frequently shadowed the opposing team’s best pass-catcher, limiting their impact on the game.
What set Surtain apart from other defensive players this year was his consistency and high-level play against both the pass and run. His ability to read the quarterback and make critical tackles in open space has been pivotal for the Broncos, turning him into a matchup nightmare for offenses.
Formerly a star at Alabama, Surtain’s transition to the NFL has been seamless. The 2024 season has cemented his status as not just a rising star, but one of the elite defensive players in the league. With his blend of athleticism, technique, and football IQ, Patrick Surtain II is already proving himself as a cornerstone for the future of the NFL’s defensive elite.
