Patrick Surtain II Wins 2024 AP Defensive Player of the Year: A True Shutdown Cornerback

In a season dominated by elite defensive performances, Denver Broncos cornerback Patrick Surtain II has been named the 2024 AP Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY). The former Alabama Crimson Tide standout and first-round pick has established himself as the league’s premier shutdown corner, earning this prestigious honor through his remarkable playmaking ability, leadership, and consistency.

Surtain’s 2024 campaign was nothing short of spectacular, as he recorded four interceptions, 11 pass deflections, and led the league with 132 interception return yards. His impact went far beyond statistics, as he consistently neutralized top receivers and forced opposing quarterbacks to rethink their game plans.

This award solidifies Surtain’s status as the NFL’s best defensive back, following in the footsteps of legendary cornerbacks who have shaped the game.

Surtain’s Path to the NFL’s Best Defender

A Star at Alabama

Patrick Surtain II’s journey to becoming the 2024 AP Defensive Player of the Year began at Alabama, where he played under legendary head coach Nick Saban. Known for his elite technique and football IQ, Surtain was a unanimous All-American in 2020 and played a crucial role in Alabama’s national championship-winning season.

During his time with the Crimson Tide, he:

• Earned SEC Defensive Player of the Year honors.
• Allowed a passer rating of just 52.0 when targeted in his final season.
• Established himself as one of the most fundamentally sound cornerbacks in college football.

His dominance at Alabama made him a top prospect in the 2021 NFL Draft, where he was selected 9th overall by the Denver Broncos.

Dominance in the NFL

Since entering the NFL, Surtain has quickly developed into one of the league’s best defensive players. His combination of size (6’2”, 202 lbs), speed, and technique makes him the prototype for a modern lockdown cornerback.

By his second season in 2022, Surtain was already recognized as one of the best in the game, earning:

• First-Team All-Pro honors.
• Pro Bowl selections in 2022 and 2023.
• A reputation as a cornerback who could erase half the field.

Heading into 2024, Surtain was already considered a top-tier defensive player, but he elevated his game even further this season, leading to his DPOY victory.

The Numbers Behind His DPOY Season

1. Lockdown Coverage

Surtain’s 2024 season was defined by his ability to shut down elite wide receivers. Opposing quarterbacks often avoided throwing in his direction, leading to career-low target rates for some of the league’s top pass-catchers.

Notable matchups included:

• Holding Tyreek Hill to just three catches for 24 yards.
• Limiting Ja’Marr Chase to four receptions for 38 yards.
• Forcing Justin Jefferson into his worst game of the season (two catches, 19 yards).

2. Game-Changing Plays

Surtain didn’t just shut down receivers—he also made impact plays. His four interceptions were among the most crucial turnovers of the season, with two of them directly leading to Broncos’ victories.

His 132 interception return yards led the league, showcasing his ability to flip field position and create scoring opportunities for his team.

3. Leadership on a Top Defense

The Broncos’ defense saw significant improvement in 2024, and Surtain was a vocal leader both on and off the field. His presence gave the Broncos confidence in their secondary, allowing the defensive front to apply more pressure and disrupt opposing offenses.

With his elite ball skills, technique, and instincts, Surtain became the backbone of Denver’s defense, ultimately earning him Defensive Player of the Year honors.

Historical Significance: Joining Elite Company

Winning Defensive Player of the Year as a cornerback is a rare achievement. Surtain joins an exclusive list of legendary defensive backs who have won the award, including:

• Deion Sanders (1994)
• Rod Woodson (1993)
• Charles Woodson (2009)
• Stephon Gilmore (2019)

His recognition as the league’s top defensive player places him among the all-time greats and further validates the shutdown cornerback’s role in today’s NFL.

What’s Next for Surtain and the Broncos?

At just 24 years old, Surtain is only getting better. His ceiling remains incredibly high, and with continued development, he could go down as one of the best defensive backs of all time.

For the Broncos, retaining Surtain long-term will be a top priority. With his current contract set to expire in the near future, Denver will likely offer a record-setting extension to ensure he remains the foundation of their defense for years to come.

Looking ahead, Surtain’s goals will likely include:

• Winning a Super Bowl with the Broncos.
• Becoming a multiple-time Defensive Player of the Year winner.
• Challenging for the Hall of Fame as one of the best defensive backs in history.

Final Thoughts

Patrick Surtain II’s 2024 AP Defensive Player of the Year award cements his status as the NFL’s premier shutdown corner. His ability to eliminate top receivers, create turnovers, and lead the Broncos’ defense made him the obvious choice for this year’s award.

At such a young age, his best football is still ahead of him, and if he continues on this trajectory, he could become one of the greatest defensive backs in NFL history.

For now, Surtain stands at the pinnacle of defensive excellence, and his 2024 season will be remembered as one of the most dominant performances by a cornerback in recent memory.