Pat Surtain II, the former Alabama CB, was named the PFWA’s Defensive Player of the Year.

In a season filled with impressive defensive performances across the NFL, one name stands out: Pat Surtain II. The former Alabama Crimson Tide cornerback, known for his elite skills and competitive edge, has earned one of the highest honors a defensive player can receive. Surtain was recently named the Professional Football Writers of America (PFWA) Defensive Player of the Year, cementing his place among the NFL’s defensive elite.

For Alabama fans, Surtain’s success is not surprising. His legacy in Tuscaloosa, along with his seamless transition to the NFL, is a testament to his exceptional talent, hard work, and commitment to the game. But what makes Surtain’s recognition as the PFWA’s Defensive Player of the Year so significant? How did a former Alabama standout rise to the top of the NFL’s defensive ranks? Let’s dive into Pat Surtain II’s career, his rise to dominance, and what this accolade means for his future.

Pat Surtain II: From Alabama to NFL Stardom

Pat Surtain II’s journey to NFL stardom began in Plantation, Florida, where he was born to a football family. His father, Pat Surtain, was a former NFL cornerback who played for over a decade with the Miami Dolphins and Kansas City Chiefs. Growing up, Pat was immersed in football, learning from the best and developing a deep understanding of the game. It was clear early on that Pat Jr. had the potential to be just as successful, if not more so, than his father.

Surtain’s high school career at American Heritage High School in Plantation was nothing short of stellar. He quickly gained national attention for his lockdown coverage skills and his ability to shut down top-tier receivers. His performance earned him a place among the best cornerbacks in the country, and it wasn’t long before he made the decision to commit to Alabama.

At Alabama, Surtain continued to impress. Under head coach Nick Saban, one of the most successful defensive minds in college football, Surtain flourished. His combination of size, athleticism, and technical prowess made him one of the top cornerbacks in college football. During his time at Alabama, Surtain became known for his ability to play both press coverage and off-coverage, his ball skills, and his intelligence on the field. His performances in both big SEC games and national contests caught the eyes of NFL scouts.

In 2021, Surtain declared for the NFL Draft, and the Denver Broncos selected him with the 9th overall pick. From the moment he entered the league, Surtain’s potential was evident. He was widely considered to be one of the most polished cornerbacks to enter the NFL in years, and his debut season in 2021 lived up to the hype. He started 15 games, showcasing his ability to cover elite receivers and make impactful plays on the ball. By the end of his rookie season, it was clear that Surtain had the skills to become one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL.

The 2023 NFL Season: Surtain’s Breakout Year

While Surtain’s rookie season was impressive, it was the 2023 NFL season where he truly broke out as one of the best defensive players in the league. His performance on the field was nothing short of spectacular, earning him the PFWA’s Defensive Player of the Year award. This honor is given to the player who has demonstrated outstanding defensive play throughout the regular season, and Surtain’s name was at the top of the list for good reason.

Surtain’s ability to shut down top-tier receivers became a defining feature of his game in 2023. He routinely matched up against the NFL’s best wideouts, including players like Davante Adams, Tyreek Hill, and Stefon Diggs, and consistently won those battles. His physicality, combined with his technical knowledge and football IQ, made him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks.

One of the most impressive aspects of Surtain’s game in 2023 was his ability to make plays on the ball. Not only did he consistently blanket wide receivers, but he also recorded interceptions and pass deflections at crucial moments. His ability to turn defense into offense was a game-changer for the Broncos, and his presence in the secondary gave the defense a level of stability and confidence that allowed them to perform at a high level.

Surtain finished the 2023 season with 5 interceptions, 17 pass deflections, and numerous tackles. His statistics were a reflection of his impact on the field, but the true value of his play was seen in the way he completely altered opposing offenses’ game plans. Quarterbacks consistently avoided throwing in his direction, knowing that Surtain would make them pay for any mistakes. This kind of dominance is what set him apart and ultimately earned him the PFWA’s highest defensive honor.

The PFWA’s Defensive Player of the Year Award: A Well-Deserved Honor

The PFWA’s Defensive Player of the Year award is one of the most prestigious honors in the NFL. Voted on by professional football writers, it is given to the player who has had the biggest impact on the defensive side of the ball throughout the season. For Surtain, this recognition is not just an individual achievement—it’s a statement about his place among the elite players in the NFL.

By receiving this award, Surtain joins a list of defensive legends who have earned similar accolades, including J.J. Watt, Aaron Donald, and T.J. Watt. This recognition further solidifies Surtain’s position as one of the NFL’s best cornerbacks, and it’s a clear indicator that his dominance on the field has not gone unnoticed.

For Alabama fans, Surtain’s rise to the top is a point of pride. The Crimson Tide have a long history of producing elite defensive backs, and Surtain is the latest in a line of standouts who have gone on to achieve success at the highest level. His success in the NFL is a testament to the coaching and development he received at Alabama, and it reflects the program’s commitment to producing top-tier talent year after year.

What This Means for Surtain’s Future

At just 23 years old, Surtain is already one of the NFL’s top cornerbacks, and his future looks incredibly bright. Earning the PFWA’s Defensive Player of the Year award is a major milestone in his career, but it’s clear that Surtain is far from reaching his peak. He still has plenty of room for growth, and as he continues to develop, he has the potential to become one of the greatest cornerbacks in NFL history.

As Surtain enters the prime of his career, the Broncos will rely on him as the cornerstone of their defense. His ability to shut down opposing receivers and make plays on the ball gives Denver a unique advantage, and the team will look to build around him as they aim to return to contention in the AFC. With Surtain in the fold, the Broncos’ secondary is in good hands, and they can expect to remain one of the toughest units in the league for years to come.

For Surtain, the sky is the limit. If he continues on this trajectory, he has the potential to win multiple All-Pro selections, Pro Bowls, and perhaps even more Defensive Player of the Year honors in the future. Given his combination of talent, work ethic, and football IQ, there’s no doubt that he will remain one of the most dominant defensive players in the league for the foreseeable future.

Surtain’s Legacy at Alabama

Before he became an NFL star, Surtain was a standout at Alabama, where he helped the Crimson Tide maintain their dominance in the SEC. His time at Alabama was marked by his ability to shut down top-tier SEC receivers, including the likes of Jerry Jeudy and Henry Ruggs III in practice. Surtain’s development at Alabama played a pivotal role in his smooth transition to the NFL, and he became one of Nick Saban’s most successful defensive backs in recent memory.

At Alabama, Surtain was known for his exceptional technique and his ability to cover any receiver in a variety of situations. His leadership on the field and his competitiveness made him a key figure on one of the nation’s top defenses. Surtain’s legacy at Alabama is one of excellence, and his success in the NFL only adds to the program’s already impressive track record of producing elite defensive players.