Broncos’ Pat Surtain II confident in Riley Moss taking on significant role

Denver’s past warrants doubters. Broncos cornerback Pat Surtain II believes the talent of this year’s group will silence those critics.

Among the players who have the All-Pro cornerback hopeful for a prosperous 2024 is Riley Moss. Denver’s second-year cornerback is in line to start opposite Surtain. Even though his defensive snaps were limited as a rookie, the former Iowa standout’s performance in training camp has created belief within the organization that he is ready for a full-time role.

“Riley has been great (throughout) camp and OTAs,” Surtain said. “Seeing him work on the field is awesome.”

Moss engaged in an intense starting cornerback competition with Damarri Mathis and Levi Wallace during training camp. He impressed teammates and coaches with his speed and ability to make plays on the ball — a trait that was on display during Denver’s joint practice with the Green Bay Packers when he broke up multiple passes.

Moss, a third-round selection, started in two of three preseason games and was sidelined in the win against the Arizona Cardinals.

In 2023, Moss played only 23 defensive snaps after coming back from core muscle surgery at the start of the season. He watched Mathis get replaced by former cornerback Fabian Moreau in the starting lineup after struggling in the first six games.

Playing on the other side of the field opposite Surtain is no easy task. With Surtain viewed as one of the best players at his position, opposing quarterbacks often avoid throwing his way, which means the other outside cornerback gets tested — a lot.

Surtain believes Moss has the tools to hold his own.

“(Moss) has the utmost confidence in his ability (and) it shows on the field,” Surtain said. “I think that’s why he’s well-deserving of playing a significant role on this team.”

Surtain’s excitement for Moss and the upcoming season was matched by his enthusiasm when unveiling his first two S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) rooms at George Washington and Manual high schools on Tuesday.

As Surtain enters his fourth season and hopes to extend his stay in Denver with a contract extension, the 24-year-old wants to continue to make an impact in the community through his charity foundation.

Surtain was inspired by former Broncos safety Justin Simmons, who was heavily involved in the community. He strives to follow in his ex-teammates footsteps.