Why Patrick Surtain II Deserves the NFL Defensive Player of the Year

The Defensive Player of the Year award is undeniably one of the most prestigious accolades a defensive player can aspire to achieve. This week, as the NFL Honors unfolds, all eyes will be on the announcement of the DPOY, which recognizes the best defender from this NFL season. With a pool of remarkable talent across the league making compelling arguments for the title, one player has distinctly separated himself from the pack: Denver Broncos cornerback Patrick Surtain II.

This standout lockdown cornerback has earned his place as one of the five finalists for the 2024 Associated Press Defensive Player of the Year award. If Surtain clinches this honor, he will become only the second player in Denver Broncos history to receive the esteemed AP Defensive Player of the Year recognition, joining an elite group of defensive icons. Throughout the season, Surtain has been instrumental to the Broncos' defensive success, often shutting down the opposition’s top wide receivers.

His statistics tell a compelling story: in 92 coverage snaps against five AFC Pro Bowl players, Surtain allowed a mere six receptions on 16 targets, totaling only 56 yards, with no touchdowns allowed, two interceptions, and a staggering 8.3 passer rating against him. Such performance against elite competition showcases his ability to compete against the very best the league has to offer.

Moreover, Surtain's impact extended beyond mere statistics—he consistently provided momentum-shifting plays throughout the season. A prime example of this was his electrifying performance in Week 5 against the Raiders, where he intercepted a pass and took it 100 yards to the house for a touchdown. This play highlighted his ability to change the course of a game and exemplified his game-changing potential. Additionally, he secured another interception in the same match, marking the second time in his career that he achieved a multi-interception game.

Surtain's exceptional contributions did not go unnoticed; he was named the AFC Defensive Player of the Month for November and achieved his fourth consecutive season with double-digit passes defensed, matching his career high in interceptions during a single year. His accolades this season include recognition as an Associated Press first-team All-Pro, a first-team All-Pro by the NFLPA Players, a Pro Bowler, and a PFWA All-NFL team member, along with receiving the 101 Award for AFC Defensive Player of the Year, the PFWA Defensive Player of the Year honors, and the Demaryius Thomas Team MVP title.

As Patrick Surtain II steps onto the stage at NFL Honors, he aims to make history by becoming the first cornerback to win AP Defensive Player of the Year honors since Stephon Gilmore claimed the title in 2019. With his remarkable performance and unwavering dedication, Surtain is not only a candidate for the award but a strong embodiment of what it means to be a true shutdown corner.