"I thought that was Chase" "Deserved": Broncos fans split over Patrick Surtain II signing $96,000,000 extension

Denver Broncos fans are split after the team gave star cornerback Patrick Surtain II a four-year extension worth $96 million, with him earning $24 million per season. The deal makes him the highest-paid defensive back in NFL history.

Surtain is a shutdown corner and one of the top corners in the NFL, but some fans believe it was an overpay.

"DAMN IT I THOUGHT THIS WAS CHASE," a fan wrote.

"Deserved," a fan added.

Surtain is just 24 and was drafted ninth overall by Denver in the 2021 draft out of Alabama.

"Well deserved," a fan wrote.

"DESERVED. BEST CORNER IN THE LEAGUE," a fan added.

Patrick Surtain is entering his fourth year in Denver. Last season with the Broncos, he recorded 69 tackles, 12 pass defenses and one interception.

"Easily the top CB in the NFL. Good for him," a fan wrote.

"Cornerback is the hardest position to play after QB. Good to see them be recognized and PAID handsomely," a fan added.

Although fans are torn on the contract, making Surtain the highest-paid DB in NFL history, he is a shutdown corner who can lock down the opposing team's top receivers.

Broncos HC Sean Payton wanted to get Patrick Surtain II deal done

A possible extension for Patrick Surtain II was one of the conversation topics at the Denver Broncos training camp.

Surtain is one of the top cornerbacks in the league, and Broncos coach Sean Payton said in July he wanted to get a deal done with him ASAP.

“We will keep you posted," Payton stated, via SI. "That is one of those answers of we will get to it when we want to.”

Patrick Surtain is a key member of the Broncos' defense, as Payton has high expectations for him.

“I want him to be himself," Payton said of his expectations for Surtain. "I think he has always been a guy that leads on the field with his performance. Maybe not as vocal as others, so I’m not looking for a change in that regard really.

"That being said, more ball production and there are a number of other things that I think he has as goals for himself, but I think from a leadership standpoint, that will take place on its own.”

Denver will open its 2024 NFL season on the road on Sept. 8 against the Seattle Seahawks. The Broncos will have their home opener in Week 2 against the Pittsburgh Steelers.