Broncos Star Pat Surtain II Ruled Out With Shoulder Injury Against Cowboys

Pat Surtain II, the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year and a key cornerback for the Denver Broncos, suffered multiple injuries during their Week 8 game against the Dallas Cowboys. Initially, he exited briefly with a lower right leg injury but returned to the game before sustaining a more serious left shoulder injury in the second quarter, which ruled him out for the remainder of the game. Surtain's absence forced the Broncos to rely on less experienced defensive backs like Kris Abrams-Draine and Riley Moss, impacting their ability to contain top Cowboys receivers. Despite his injury, the Broncos maintained control of the game and aimed to extend their winning streak and top position in the AFC West. Surtain's importance to the Broncos' defense is underscored by his accolades, including the 2024 Defensive Player of the Year award and multiple Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections. The team's defensive strategy, which heavily depends on Surtain's coverage abilities, will be tested in upcoming games as they adjust to his absence.