Posted on Oct 30

Broncos D coordinator Joseph confident in young CBs stepping up without Surtain against Texans

Posted Oct 30, 2025

The Denver Broncos will face a significant challenge as they prepare to play the Houston Texans without star cornerback Pat Surtain II, who is expected to miss multiple games due to a pectoral injury.

Why it matters: Surtain's absence leaves a substantial void in the Broncos' secondary, impacting their defensive strategy and depth.

As the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, Surtain has been pivotal in shaping the Broncos' defense, which employs a 3-4 scheme that heavily relies on strong cornerback play.
The team's ability to cope without him will be put to the test against a Texans offense seeking to capitalize on any perceived weaknesses.

What’s new: Head Coach Vance Joseph expressed confidence in his defensive unit despite the setback.

“You're never as good as you could be without your best player,” Joseph stated. “But that being said, I'm confident in our group; it's a hand-picked roster.”
This confidence underscores Joseph's belief in the depth of the roster, particularly among younger players stepping into larger roles.

Yes, but: The lack of experience in the secondary could pose challenges.

Kris Abrams-Draine, a second-year cornerback, will likely step up to fill Surtain's position alongside third-year corner Riley Moss.
Both players have limited experience at this level, raising concerns about their ability to contain opposing wide receivers, especially in critical matchups.

What to watch: The role of rookies and young players will be crucial.

Jahdae Barron, a rookie first-round pick, is expected to feature prominently in nickel and dime packages, providing additional coverage options.
Ja'Quan McMillian, another fourth-year cornerback, will also play a vital role in supporting the secondary during this transition period.

What's next: The Broncos are also welcoming back linebacker Dre Greenlaw, who returns from suspension and injuries.

After missing the first six games of the season, Greenlaw played 21 snaps and recorded six tackles in his previous outing against the Giants.
His return adds much-needed experience and stability to the linebacking corps, which may help alleviate some pressure on the secondary.

Between the lines: The overall effectiveness of the Broncos’ defense hinges on collaboration and adaptability.

While losing Surtain is undoubtedly a blow, Joseph's faith in the roster suggests a strategic pivot towards leveraging the strengths of the available players.
As teams increasingly employ spread concepts, the Broncos will need to adjust their coverages effectively to limit big plays from the Texans’ offensive weapons.

The bottom line: The upcoming game against the Texans will serve as a critical test for the Broncos’ depth and resilience.

With Surtain sidelined, the onus falls heavily on the remaining corners and the overall defensive strategy employed by Joseph.
How well the Broncos can adapt to this adversity may very well determine their success not only in this game but as they move through the rest of the season.

Broncos D coordinator Joseph confident in young CBs stepping up without Surtain against Texans

Alex Parker

Posted Oct 30, 2025

Why it matters: Surtain's absence leaves a substantial void in the Broncos' secondary, impacting their defensive strategy and depth.

As the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, Surtain has been pivotal in shaping the Broncos' defense, which employs a 3-4 scheme that heavily relies on strong cornerback play.

The team's ability to cope without him will be put to the test against a Texans offense seeking to capitalize on any perceived weaknesses.

What’s new: Head Coach Vance Joseph expressed confidence in his defensive unit despite the setback.

“You're never as good as you could be without your best player,” Joseph stated. “But that being said, I'm confident in our group; it's a hand-picked roster.”

This confidence underscores Joseph's belief in the depth of the roster, particularly among younger players stepping into larger roles.

Yes, but: The lack of experience in the secondary could pose challenges.

Kris Abrams-Draine, a second-year cornerback, will likely step up to fill Surtain's position alongside third-year corner Riley Moss.

Both players have limited experience at this level, raising concerns about their ability to contain opposing wide receivers, especially in critical matchups.

What to watch: The role of rookies and young players will be crucial.

Jahdae Barron, a rookie first-round pick, is expected to feature prominently in nickel and dime packages, providing additional coverage options.

Ja'Quan McMillian, another fourth-year cornerback, will also play a vital role in supporting the secondary during this transition period.

What's next: The Broncos are also welcoming back linebacker Dre Greenlaw, who returns from suspension and injuries.

After missing the first six games of the season, Greenlaw played 21 snaps and recorded six tackles in his previous outing against the Giants.

His return adds much-needed experience and stability to the linebacking corps, which may help alleviate some pressure on the secondary.

Between the lines: The overall effectiveness of the Broncos’ defense hinges on collaboration and adaptability.

While losing Surtain is undoubtedly a blow, Joseph's faith in the roster suggests a strategic pivot towards leveraging the strengths of the available players.

As teams increasingly employ spread concepts, the Broncos will need to adjust their coverages effectively to limit big plays from the Texans’ offensive weapons.

The bottom line: The upcoming game against the Texans will serve as a critical test for the Broncos’ depth and resilience.

With Surtain sidelined, the onus falls heavily on the remaining corners and the overall defensive strategy employed by Joseph.

How well the Broncos can adapt to this adversity may very well determine their success not only in this game but as they move through the rest of the season.