Cornerback Pat Surtain II and wide receiver Pat Bryant suffered short-term ankle injuries during Sunday’s loss to the 49ers, according to NFL Network’s top league insider Ian Rapoport. Surtain II left the field after suffering a non-contact ankle injury. Many feared the worst, but fortunately he avoided serious injury. As for Bryant, we have already learned that he will miss “a few weeks” due to a sprained ankle, but this confirmation is good to hear.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reports that Surtain II is happening “week to week” and a source believes he will be out for about two weeks.
Honestly, this is great news for both players. After a tough loss to the 49ers and their pesky injury-causing replacement, the fear was that the Broncos had lost both players for the entire season. Surtain II suffered a non-contact injury and was unable to put much weight on his ankle and had to be helped off the field. As for Bryant, his knee/ankle buckled awkwardly and he was eventually carried off the court. It didn’t look great for either player, but again, it’s great news.
It remains to be seen if one or both players will be placed on short-term injured reserve, but we should find out in the coming days.
With Surtain II sidelined, look for 2025 first-round pick Jahdae Barron to replace him as the starter. He came in to relieve Surtain II on Sunday and played well. He made some good plays in coverage and also had some big hits on the 49ers ball carriers. Much has been made of his limited number of snaps this season, but now he will have the opportunity to prove himself against the Chargers and Seahawks. We still haven’t heard from Riley Moss and his ribs, but if he can’t play, Kris Abrams-Draine will fill in for him like he did on Sunday.
The Broncos’ corner depth will be tested early this season.
I’ve already mentioned the loss of Pat Bryant, but the fact that it was only a short-term injury is great news. Bryant has become one of the team’s most productive and consistent pass catchers, and his loss is a major blow to the Denver Broncos’ already inconsistent passing game. Reserves Troy Franklin, Marvin Mims Jr. and Lil’Jordan Humphrey will be tasked with replacing Bryant in the next few games, at least.
Ultimately, this is the best-case scenario for the Broncos. Both injuries appeared serious, but they escaped serious injury and are expected to return as soon as possible.
Gn sports
