The NFL is a league of constant evolution, where strategy shifts, player profiles change, and the pursuit of competitive advantage never truly rests. In this dynamic landscape, certain players emerge who not only dominate their position but fundamentally alter how opponents approach the game. Pat Surtain II, the Denver Broncos’ phenom cornerback, has unequivocally cemented himself in this elite category. His ascent to the pinnacle of defensive back play has been so profound that even former and current star wide receivers are dissecting his game, a testament to his undeniable influence.
Recently, a video circulated showing Cincinnati Bengals’ All-Pro wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase and legendary former NFL receiver Chad Johnson (aka Ocho Cinco) engaging in a candid scouting session, with Surtain as their subject. This wasn’t a casual conversation; it was a deep dive into Surtain’s technique, his tendencies, and the subtle nuances that make him so incredibly difficult to beat. For any player, let alone a cornerback, to be the focus of such detailed analysis from two of the game’s most skilled offensive minds speaks volumes. It raises a critical question: how does a player reach this level of respect and influence, and what does it mean for their future, and for the broader strategic landscape of the NFL?
Pat Surtain II’s journey to becoming a lockdown corner is a masterclass in development, discipline, and innate talent. Drafted ninth overall in the 2021 NFL Draft out of Alabama, Surtain arrived in the league with a polished skill set honed under the tutelage of one of college football’s most respected defensive minds, Nick Saban. Even as a rookie, his rare combination of size, athleticism, and football IQ was evident. He displayed exceptional coverage skills, rarely being out of phase with receivers and demonstrating remarkable ball-hawking instincts. His fluid hips, textbook backpedal, and disciplined eyes allowed him to mirror the league’s most agile pass-catchers, whether in man coverage or executing complex zone schemes.
What quickly set Surtain apart was his consistent ability to eliminate one side of the field. Opposing quarterbacks, known for meticulously dissecting defensive coverages and exploiting weaknesses, found themselves consistently avoiding Surtain’s side. This “island” mentality, where a cornerback is so dominant that he effectively takes away an entire half of the passing game, is the hallmark of truly elite defensive backs. It’s a rare trait, often reserved for generational talents, and Surtain reached that status with astonishing speed. His 2024 campaign, where he was a finalist for AP Defensive Player of the Year, saw him targeted just 52 times all season, despite often shadowing the opponent’s top receiver. This incredibly low target rate, coupled with four interceptions and an impressive 0.53 yards allowed per cover snap, underscores his suffocating coverage. His ability to prevent explosive plays, allowing just six completions of 15 or more yards for a mere 1% explosive play rate, is particularly telling.
The Chad Johnson and Ja’Marr Chase video serves as a public validation of what NFL offensive coordinators and quarterbacks have privately acknowledged for some time: Surtain is a problem. Chad Johnson, known for his elite route-running and ability to create separation, offered insights from the perspective of a receiver trying to win. Ja’Marr Chase, one of the league’s premier deep threats and YAC (yards after catch) artists, brought the perspective of a current star who has directly faced Surtain and felt his impact. Their discussion likely delved into Surtain’s ability to anticipate routes, his uncanny knack for staying in phase, and perhaps even the slight advantages a receiver might try to gain against him – the subtle head fakes, the footwork variations, the moments where a receiver tries to bait him into a false step.
For Surtain, hearing such prominent figures break down his game is undoubtedly a badge of honor, but it also carries strategic implications. When your game is being dissected at such a high level, it means two things: you’ve achieved a significant level of respect, and opponents will now invest even more time and effort into finding ways to counter your strengths. This is the constant cat-and-mouse game of the NFL. Just as Surtain studies receivers, receivers and offensive coordinators will now be studying him with renewed intensity.
One of the primary ways defenses adapt to an elite cornerback like Surtain is by altering their coverage schemes. Historically, defenses might “bracket” a top receiver, dedicating two defenders to him – a cornerback and a safety. However, with a true lockdown corner, defensive coordinators gain immense flexibility. They can confidently leave Surtain in man coverage on the opponent’s best receiver, essentially removing that threat from the equation. This frees up other defensive assets to be deployed elsewhere. A safety who would typically be helping over the top can now rotate down into the box to support the run game, or be used to blitz the quarterback, adding pressure to the passer. Linebackers can play more aggressively, knowing the deep middle is protected. This allows for more exotic blitz packages, more creative zone coverage rotations, and a generally more aggressive defensive posture.
Indeed, the Broncos’ defensive transformation in 2024, becoming one of the league’s best units, was largely catalyzed by Surtain’s dominance. His presence allowed defensive coordinator Vance Joseph to unleash a more aggressive scheme, leading to a franchise-record 63 sacks. When Surtain missed time, the defense’s aggression visibly tapered, and their coverage packages underwent drastic changes, highlighting his profound impact on the unit’s overall functionality. This symbiotic relationship between an elite cornerback and an aggressive pass rush is crucial. Surtain’s tight coverage forces quarterbacks to hold the ball longer, giving the pass rush more time to get home. Conversely, a strong pass rush hurries quarterbacks, leading to rushed throws that Surtain is perfectly positioned to capitalize on.
The strategic implications extend beyond simply freeing up other defenders. Elite cornerbacks also influence offensive game planning. Opposing offensive coordinators might choose to simply avoid throwing to Surtain’s side of the field entirely, effectively playing 10-on-10 on the other side. This can sometimes lead to an offense becoming predictable or unbalanced. Alternatively, they might try to isolate their top receiver in the slot or use motion to get him away from Surtain, forcing other Broncos defenders into one-on-one matchups they might not be as comfortable with. They might also try to exploit perceived weaknesses, perhaps testing Surtain with certain route combinations or against specific personnel packages. For example, if they identify that he might be slightly less comfortable against a particular type of route or receiver (e.g., a shifty slot receiver versus a big outside contested-catch specialist), they will try to exploit that.
However, Surtain’s versatility often negates such attempts. His ability to play effectively both inside and outside, and in various coverage types, makes it incredibly difficult for offenses to truly “hide” their top receiver from him. PFF’s analysis of his 2024 season showed his 75.6 coverage grade in man- or zone-match coverage ranked second in the league, and his 90.2 grade in zone was third best. This adaptability is what makes him so unique and so challenging for offensive coordinators to scheme against.
For Pat Surtain himself, being scouted by the likes of Ja’Marr Chase and Chad Johnson presents both a challenge and an opportunity. The challenge lies in staying ahead of the curve. As his tendencies become more widely known and scrutinized, he must continue to evolve his game. This means refining his technique, adding new tools to his arsenal, and being unpredictable. The best cornerbacks are not static; they continuously adapt. They might vary their press technique, alter their cushion in off-coverage, or develop new ways to bait quarterbacks. This constant refinement is what separates good players from truly great, long-lasting ones.
The opportunity, however, is even greater. This public acknowledgment elevates his status as one of the NFL’s premier defensive talents. It creates a narrative around him that transcends mere statistics, highlighting his strategic importance. It builds his brand and validates his hard work. More importantly, it fuels his competitive fire. Knowing that the league’s best are studying him will only motivate him further to perfect his craft. Surtain’s own reaction to the video, likely a quiet acknowledgment of the respect, coupled with a renewed focus on his preparation, is indicative of a true professional. Elite players thrive on competition, and knowing their opponents are working just as hard to find an edge against them only sharpens their resolve.
Looking ahead, the evolution of defensive back play in the NFL will continue to be influenced by players like Surtain. The league is increasingly valuing versatile, intelligent, and technically sound defensive backs who can excel in multiple roles. The days of one-dimensional corners are fading. Coaches want players who can press, play off, run with deep threats, stick with shifty slot receivers, and contribute in run support. Surtain embodies this modern archetype. His influence will likely be seen in how future cornerbacks are drafted and developed, with a greater emphasis on football IQ, adaptability, and the ability to diagnose plays quickly.
The pressure on an NFL cornerback is immense. As Pat Surtain himself recently discussed, you can have a perfect game, shut down a whole side of the field, and all it takes is one touchdown or one big play for the narrative to flip. This hyper-scrutiny is amplified for a player of his caliber. Every snap is evaluated, every matchup is a battle, and the margin for error is razor-thin. However, Surtain has consistently demonstrated the mental fortitude and short-term memory required to excel at this unforgiving position. He understands that mistakes are part of the game, but how you respond to them defines your character and performance.
The upcoming season will undoubtedly present new challenges for Surtain. Offensive coordinators will continue to throw their best at him, trying to break his lockdown coverage. They will devise elaborate schemes, utilize new personnel, and test his discipline. The Broncos’ defensive success will, to a significant extent, hinge on Surtain’s continued ability to shut down opposing passing attacks and enable the rest of the defense to play aggressively. The question isn’t whether he will be challenged, but how he will continue to rise to those challenges.
Ultimately, the phenomenon of Pat Surtain II being scouted by the likes of Ja’Marr Chase and Chad Johnson is more than just a viral video moment. It’s a powerful illustration of the profound impact a truly elite player can have on the strategic fabric of the NFL. It highlights the intricate dance between offense and defense, the constant pursuit of innovation, and the relentless drive for competitive supremacy. For Pat Surtain, it’s a validation of his extraordinary talent, a challenge to continue his ascent, and a clear signal that he is, without a doubt, one of the most game-altering players in the National Football League today. The chess match between Surtain and the league’s top receivers will continue to be one of the most compelling narratives in professional football, offering invaluable lessons in skill, strategy, and adaptation.
