Denver Broncos Make Major Decision On Defensive Star’s Future

The Denver Broncos have exercised their fifth-year option on cornerback Patrick Surtain II, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Surtain is slated to make a tick under $20 million on the option in 2025.

The 24-year-old, who played his collegiate football at the University of Alabama, was selected by the Broncos with the ninth overall pick of the 2021 NFL Draft.

He played in 16 games during his rookie campaign, registering 58 tackles, four interceptions, 14 passes defended and a defensive touchdown.

The following year, Surtain appeared in every contest, recording 60 tackles, a couple of picks, a forced fumble and 10 passes defended en route to a Pro Bowl appearance and a First-Team All-Pro selection.

Surtain then participated in every game this past season, finishing with 69 tackles, an interception and 12 passes defended. He made his second straight trip to the Pro Bowl.

Surtain has established himself as one of the best cornerbacks in football, but his future in Denver seems to be in question.

The Broncos are entering rebuilding mode, which has some wondering whether or not they will trade Surtain as to avoid paying him a massive deal long term.

Of course, Surtain is still young, and so long as Denver manages its salary-cap situation carefully, it can extend the star defensive back and still properly fill out the roster.

But for now, we know that Surtain is, at the very least, under contract with the Broncos through 2025. We’ll see if Denver ends up keeping him the entire time.