Injury
Denver Broncos
San Francisco 49ers
Patrick Surtain II leaves Broncos-49ers game with ankle injury
Broncos star cornerback Patrick Surtain II exited Sunday’s game against the 49ers in the first half with an ankle injury, and his return is listed as questionable.
By the PickALeague Newsroom · Published · Source: CBS SportsSummary written with AI assistance — how we workLire en français →
Denver Broncos star cornerback Patrick Surtain II left Sunday’s game against the San Francisco 49ers in the first half with an ankle injury, raising immediate concern for one of the NFL’s top defenders. The non-contact injury occurred late in the second quarter, and Surtain was helped off the field by medical staff. The Broncos later announced that he is questionable to return.
The injury came during what had been a low-scoring, defense-heavy matchup. Surtain went down without clear contact on the play, prompting trainers to rush onto the field. He was able to leave the field with assistance but did not return before halftime, heading instead toward the locker room for further evaluation.
Broncos lose centerpiece of elite defense
Surtain is a central figure in Denver’s defensive identity. He was named the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2024 and has been selected to the Pro Bowl in each of the past four seasons, underscoring his status as one of the league’s premier cornerbacks. Aside from missing three games last season with a shoulder issue, he has been notably durable, appearing in at least 16 contests in four of his first five years.
If he is forced to miss extended time, the ripple effects on the Broncos’ secondary will be significant. Without Surtain, Denver’s top outside options at cornerback become Riley Moss, Ja'Quan McMillan and Kris Abrams-Draine. The team also has 2025 first-round pick Jahdae Barron available at the position, giving the coaching staff another piece to deploy as it reworks coverage plans.
Tight game vs. 49ers without Surtain to open second half
At halftime, the Broncos and 49ers were locked in a 3-3 tie, reflecting how both defenses had controlled the game. When San Francisco opened the second half on offense, Surtain was not on the field for Denver, forcing the Broncos to roll out their adjusted cornerback group immediately after the break.
How Surtain’s ankle responds in the coming hours and days will be closely watched, given his importance to Denver’s scheme and matchups against opposing No. 1 receivers. For now, the Broncos must rely on their depth at cornerback while awaiting clarity on the severity of their star defender’s injury.