Patrick Surtain II Shines in NFL Debut For the Denver Broncos

Patrick Surtain II made his National Football League debut on Saturday and the rookie certainly did not disappoint.

The former Alabama defensive back put the league on notice, in 11 coverage snaps, Surtain recorded two pass breakups, a pick-six and did not allow a single catch.

Surtain II has been a standout throughout Broncos training camp and offseason workouts, drawing praise from a number of veterans and coaches. Most noticeably how smooth his transition has been from college to the NFL.

“Probably one of the quickest [rookies] I’ve seen acclimate to a defense and pick up multiple spots. It’s pretty impressive," said Bryce Callahan.

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“He’s handled [the transition to the NFL] like a pro,” said Bradley Chubb. “He’s been here. You’ve seen the guys say he’s picking up things like he’s a vet. I see nothing different. He’s carrying himself with a confidence and a swag. That’s what you love to see in a rookie, especially a DB."

It is no surprise Surtain was able to adjust to the NFL game quickly. Surtain, a former three-year starter at the University of Alabama, also comes from NFL pedigree. His father, Patrick Surtain played 11 seasons in the NFL for the Miami Dolphins and Kansas City Chiefs.

"Always in position, great in press coverage great in all coverage, makes plays on the ball and he's a great tackler, said ESPN NFL analyst Ryan Clark back in April. “This is the type of dude that grew up in the house with a coach. Oh by the way, that coach was his dad, Patrick Surtain II who was also a baller in this league. This is somebody that the Denver Broncos plug in the first play and he starts, and balls."

The Denver Broncos will be back on the field for their second preseason game next Saturday against the Seattle Seahawks.