The Denver Broncos have made a significant move in securing their future by awarding a record contract to cornerback Patrick Surtain II. The former Alabama star, who was selected ninth overall in the 2021 NFL Draft, has signed a four-year contract with the Broncos that is reported to be worth $20.9 million, including a $12.9 million signing bonus.
This contract is the largest ever awarded to a rookie in the history of the Denver Broncos. The deal also includes a fifth-year option, which is standard for first-round draft picks. The Broncos have not disclosed the specific terms of the contract, but it is believed to be fully guaranteed.
Patrick Surtain II, son of former Pro Bowl cornerback Patrick Surtain, is considered one of the top defensive prospects in this year’s draft class. At 6-foot-2 and 208 pounds, he possesses the size, speed, and athleticism needed to excel at the NFL level. His performance at Alabama, where he recorded 116 tackles, four interceptions, and 24 pass breakups in three seasons, further solidified his status as a top prospect.
The Broncos’ decision to invest heavily in Surtain signals their commitment to strengthening their defense. Last season, the team struggled on defense, ranking 25th in the league in passing yards allowed per game. With Surtain’s addition, the Broncos hope to improve their secondary and create a formidable defense that can compete with the best in the league.
Surtain’s record contract also reflects the increasing value of cornerbacks in the NFL. In a league that is increasingly focused on passing, having a shutdown cornerback can significantly impact a team’s defensive success. The Broncos’ investment in Surtain shows that they understand this trend and are willing to pay top dollar for elite talent at the cornerback position.
The signing of Surtain is not only a significant move for the Broncos but also for the NFL as a whole. It sets a new benchmark for rookie contracts and could potentially influence the contracts of future top-10 picks. It also underscores the importance of the cornerback position in today’s NFL and could lead to higher salaries for cornerbacks across the league.
In conclusion, the Denver Broncos’ record contract with Patrick Surtain II is a significant investment in their future. It signals their commitment to improving their defense and their understanding of the increasing value of the cornerback position. It also sets a new standard for rookie contracts and could influence the contracts of future top draft picks. Only time will tell if this investment pays off, but for now, it’s clear that the Broncos are willing to do whatever it takes to build a championship-caliber team.