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The Denver Broncos lost a key piece of the team’s defense on Sunday, as star cornerback Patrick Surtain II was ruled out with a concussion.
Surtain was hurt on the first defensive play of the game for the Broncos during their matchup with the Los Angeles Chargers. After breaking up a pass intended for Chargers rookie Ladd McConkey, he briefly stayed down on the field before walking to the sideline.
The 24-year-old was evaluated by Denver’s medical staff before heading to the locker room.
Surtain has already established himself as one of the NFL’s top cornerbacks, with two Pro Bowl appearances as well as an All-Pro nod under his belt through his first three seasons.
His strong play continued in 2024, as he was named the AFC Defensive Player of the Week after picking off two passes during Denver’s 34-18 win over the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 5.
In addition to his two interceptions, Surtain has also recorded 14 tackles and five passes defensed this season. He’s earned an impressive 73.7 grade from Pro Football Focus for his efforts in 2024, allowing just 10 receptions through his first five games.
Surtain has been a crucial part of a Broncos secondary that owns the league’s fifth-best pass defense. Denver also allowed just 14.6 points per game entering Sunday’s contest, the second-best mark among all NFL teams.
The former Alabama standout has been able to stay healthy since he was selected with the No. 9 overall pick in the 2021 draft, appearing in 56 of a possible 57 games since his rookie year.
Surtain was rewarded for his play with a four-year, $96 million contract extension on Sept. 4.
With the star corner out, the Broncos will likely lean on Ja’Quan McMillian on the boundary alongside Riley Moss. Surtain is also in danger of missing Denver’s Week 7 contest due to a quick turnaround, as the team will play against the New Orleans Saints on Thursday Night Football.
