Patrick Surtain II suffered an ankle injury early in the game against the Dallas Cowboys, but he was able to come back from the injury only one play later. However, he suffered a shoulder injury just at the end of the first half, and he is now out for the rest of the game.

He suffered the injury while trying to break up a pass, and he stayed in the locker room as the second half started.

The reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year is arguably the best cornerback in the league, and is the leader of one of the best defenses in the NFL.

The Broncos selected him with the No. 9 pick in the 2021 NFL Draft out of Alabama, and he became a vital part of their team instantly. In his rookie season, he finished with 58 tackles and four interceptions.

Last season he was at his absolute best, as he had 45 tackles to go along with four interceptions. He also returned one of those picks 100 yards for a touchdown.

Having a guy like that on the outside allows defensive coordinator Vance Joseph to be very creative and aggressive in how he calls his defense. The Broncos also have an elite defensive line that is well on its way to competing for the all-time single season sack record.

Opposing offenses are very hesitant to throw at Surtain, and that basically takes one side of the field away at all times.

WIth him out, guys like Riley Moss, Ja'Quan McMillian, Jahdae Barron and Kris Abrams-Draine will have to step up in his absence.

The Broncos are in complete control against the Dallas Cowboys, and are well on their way to moving to 6-2 on the season and staying atop the AFC West. 

However, if they are going to be a true contender in the AFC against quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert and Josh Allen, then having a healthy Surtain is an absolute must.

Denver will take on the Houston Texans next week, and then have a bye after that.