SEATTLE — When asked if he’d like to consistently match up against an opponent’s top receiver, Broncos cornerback Pat Surtain II sticks to his usual response:
“You always want a challenge, but at the end of the day, I do whatever the team needs,” Surtain said. “My job is to execute the game plan without mistakes. But, of course, you always want that challenge.”
While one game doesn’t predict a season’s approach, Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph tested the strategy in Week 1 against the Seattle Seahawks. Surtain was assigned to cover Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf on 24 of his 25 routes. According to NFL Next Gen Stats, Metcalf was held to 29 yards on three receptions, with his longest catch at 12 yards. Surtain, known for being his harshest critic, felt there was room for improvement.
“There’s still some things to clean up,” Surtain said. “But I think I held my own, and I want to capitalize when the opportunities come.”
Despite two controversial penalties against him, Surtain also made key plays, including breaking up a pass on a 2-point conversion attempt. On third downs, Metcalf had just one six-yard catch late in the game.
Surtain has established himself as one of the league’s top corners, earning Pro Bowl honors and a first-team All-Pro selection in 2022. He typically lines up at left corner, and opposing teams often avoid throwing his way. Broncos coaches have noticed, with Joseph stating, “Our job is to make sure teams can’t just avoid Pat.”
Denver’s next opponents include Pittsburgh’s George Pickens, Tampa Bay’s Mike Evans, the Jets’ Garrett Wilson, and the Raiders’ Davante Adams. The question remains: How often will Joseph have Surtain shadow these WR1s?
In the Week 1 loss, Denver’s defense held Seahawks QB Geno Smith to 171 passing yards, though Seattle’s run game found success in the second half. Broncos safety play and improved run defense will play a role in whether Surtain continues to shadow top receivers moving forward. As Surtain wrapped up his postgame comments, he reiterated his team-first mentality:
“Whatever they need me to do, I’ll do.”