Broncos CB Ronald Darby: Patrick Surtain II is 'still learning, and that's the scary thing'

The Broncos have had great cornerbacks, including Pro Hall of Famer Champ Bailey and Super Bowl champion Chris Harris. Patrick Surtain II, coming off an outstanding rookie season, may be climbing into the same stratosphere.

“He’s still learning, and that’s the scary thing,” teammate and fellow cornerback Ronald Darby said in a news conference Tuesday. “He’s as good as he is, and he’s still learning.” 

Surtain II, only 22, is already regarded as one of the NFL's better defensive backs. NFL.com's David Carr, a former NFL QB, rated him as the fifth-best cornerback in the league. 

“Surtain feels poised to have an even better year two,” Carr wrote. “His confidence and athleticism are two reasons he broke out as a rookie.”

Surtain II "doesn't panic when he has to turn and run with receivers," Carr added.

According to Pro Football Focus, Surtain II had the second-lowest passer rating (69.7) in coverage last season. He had 14 pass deflections, leading the Broncos, and made the Pro Football Writers of America’s All-Rookie team. 

The Broncos need a great performance from Surtain II and the rest of the defense to stay out of last place in the AFC West, which is loaded with high-powered offenses.