Denver Broncos cornerback Pat Surtain II was named as one of the finalists for AP Defensive Player of the Year for the 2024 season. This marks his fourth season in the NFL, and it has been his best yet. Surtain put up impressive stats, including four interceptions, 45 tackles, and 11 pass breakups, with 132 yards in returns, including a 100-yard interception return for a touchdown, a league-leading stat.
Former Broncos great Champ Bailey, who partnered with Truelieve, praised Surtain’s skills, saying he saw a little bit of himself in the young player but thinks Surtain is better suited for the pros. Bailey credited Surtain’s professionalism, technique, and demeanor, noting that he approached the game in a way that sets him apart. Bailey predicted that Surtain will be a Hall of Famer if he stays healthy, and expressed his hope that Surtain will win Defensive Player of the Year this year.
Surtain is in good company as a finalist, as the nominees list is stacked with talented defensive players, including Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Zack Baun, Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett, Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson, and Pittsburgh Steelers pass rusher T.J. Watt. Despite the stiff competition, Surtain has earned his third Pro Bowl selection and his second First-Team All-Pro selection this season.
