cbssports
Denver Broncos star cornerback Patrick Surtain II sustained a non-contact ankle injury late in the second quarter of Sunday's matchup with the San Francisco 49ers. He required assistance to leave the field and is officially listed as questionable to return.
Surtain, the reigning 2024 Defensive Player of the Year and a Pro Bowler in each of the past four seasons, has been remarkably durable throughout his career, appearing in at least 16 games in four of his first five years. He did miss three games last season due to a shoulder injury.
The Broncos boast one of the NFL's top defenses, and Surtain is a cornerstone of that unit. In his absence, Riley Moss, Ja'Quan McMillan, and Kris Abrams-Draine would step up as Denver's primary cornerbacks. The team also selected Jahdae Barron in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft to bolster the position.
At halftime, the Broncos and 49ers were deadlocked at 3-3. Surtain was not on the field for San Francisco's opening drive of the second half.
Key Analysis
Losing Surtain for any extended period would be a significant blow to Denver's defense. His elite coverage skills and playmaking ability have earned him league-wide recognition, and his absence would force less experienced corners into larger roles. The Broncos' depth will be tested if Surtain is sidelined, making his status a critical storyline to monitor.
Originally reported by cbssports.