The Denver Broncos are preparing to face the New Orleans Saints without one of their biggest assets, All-Pro cornerback Patrick Surtain II, in what promises to be a crucial matchup.
Surtain suffered a concussion on the first defensive play during the team’s Week 6 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, forcing him to miss the Week 7 game. In response, the Broncos plan to adopt a group strategy for their cornerback duties, relying on Levi Wallace, Ja’Quan McMillian, and potentially Damarri Mathis, who is returning from injured reserve.
The absence of Surtain comes at a pivotal time, though Denver may catch a break as the Saints could be without wide receivers Chris Olave (concussion) and Rashid Shaheed (knee). Rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler will also make his second career start for New Orleans.
This Thursday Night Football clash marks the return of head coach Sean Payton to New Orleans, where he led the Saints to nine playoff appearances and a Super Bowl title in 16 seasons.
With Surtain sidelined, McMillian has taken on an expanded role, splitting time between his usual nickel position and outside cornerback. “McMillian had to get comfortable quickly,” reported Ryan McFadden of The Denver Post, noting the player’s limited practice reps at outside corner during the week.
Surtain, who became the NFL’s highest-paid defensive back last month with a $96 million contract extension, has been vital to the Broncos’ defense. His 100-yard interception return in Week 5 against the Raiders is one of the season’s standout moments, contributing to a 34-18 victory. Selected ninth overall in the 2021 draft, Surtain has earned two Pro Bowl selections and an All-Pro nod in 2022.
The Broncos are hopeful the group approach will succeed, especially with second-year cornerback Riley Moss stepping up.
Moss, described by Sports Illustrated’s Chad Evans as “one of the NFL’s best young cornerbacks,” has recorded 39 tackles, five pass deflections, and a career-first interception this season. His standout performance against the Raiders demonstrated his growing impact, leaving the Broncos optimistic about their defense despite Surtain’s absence.
