When will Pat Surtain return? Denver Broncos fears extended absence for top defender after pec strain diagnosis

The Denver Broncos’ playoff hopes just hit a nerve. Pat Surtain II, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year and the heartbeat of Denver’s secondary, is now expected to miss significant time after suffering a pectoral injury in Sunday’s clash with the Dallas Cowboys.

The moment looked innocent enough, a routine tackle attempt on wideout George Pickens right before halftime. But concerns escalated quickly after Surtain did not return and was initially ruled out with what the team called a shoulder issue.Now, multiple insiders are reporting that Denver may have to brace for life without their top defensive weapon.

Short-term IR remains on the table as Denver prepares for worst-case stretch

NFL insider Jordan Schultz revealed that Surtain is expected to miss 4-6 weeks, though surgery will not be required.

He’ll seek a second medical opinion before locking in an official recovery timeline, but the Broncos are already weighing roster moves.NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport labeled him “week-to-week” and confirmed he could land on short-term injured reserve, a move echoed by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Should Denver make that decision, Surtain would be forced to sit out a minimum of four games.The timing? Brutal.

Denver is about to enter a critical stretch against the Houston Texans, Las Vegas Raiders, and Kansas City Chiefs, followed by a Week 12 bye.

Best-case scenario: Surtain returns Week 13 when the Broncos travel to face the Washington Commanders. Worst-case: Denver’s defense must battle through its toughest tests while missing the NFL’s ultimate lockdown corner.Before exiting Sunday’s game, Surtain had logged five tackles and a pass breakup. On the season, he has already stacked 27 tackles and nine PBUs through eight games, looking every bit the award-winning star he proved to be in 2024.

Next man up mentality brings major pressure to Broncos secondary

Without PS2 patrolling the sidelines, the job shifts to Kris Abrams-Draine opposite Riley Moss, while Jahdae Barron may also see increased opportunities. Ja'Quan McMillian will hold down the slot in a unit now tasked with containing explosive AFC offenses.Surtain’s recovery now becomes one of the biggest storylines in Denver’s season. The Broncos need him healthy for a playoff run. For now, fans wait, coaches adjust, and opponents suddenly sense an opening in the Mile High sky.Also Read: Packers and Steelers revive iconic looks as retro uniforms headline Sunday Night Football