Cornerback Pat Surtain II’s time playing with former Broncos edge rusher Von Miller was short.
As a rookie in 2021, Surtain played in seven games with Miller before the eight-time Pro Bowler was traded away to the Rams, who went on to win Super Bowl LVI. But during Surtain’s short time with Miller, he remembered the veteran’s leadership and wisdom.
Miller, who is now with the Buffalo Bills, will play against the Broncos for the first time on Monday Night Football, and Surtain is looking forward to the opportunity of facing his old teammate.
“It’s gonna be different not seeing him in orange and blue, but it’s going to be great,” Surtain said Tuesday.
Miller played 10 seasons in Denver, becoming one of the best defensive players in franchise history. He is the franchise leader in sacks (110.5) and quarterback hits (225). But more importantly, he was named MVP of Super Bowl 50, as he helped lead the Broncos to a 24-10 win over the Carolina Panthers.
After Miller helped the Rams beat the Cincinnati Bengals to claim their second title and first as a Los Angeles-based team, he signed a six-year, $120 million contract with the Buffalo Bills in 2022. His first season in Buffalo was limited to 11 games after he suffered a torn ACL.
He has played in five games since returning from injury last month.
“The name Von Miller speaks for itself,” right guard Quinn Meinerz said. “He’s a phenomenal player. It’s going to be cool (playing) against him.”
The challenge of facing Allen: Surtain is well aware that Bills quarterback Josh Allen can make any throw on the field. For the Pro Bowl cornerback, he is even more concerned about Allen’s running ability.
This season, Allen has 44 carries for 233 yards and six touchdowns. He has rushed for 750-plus yards in each of the last two seasons.
“He gives his team second chances with his feet,” Surtain said. “I believe that’s a very underrated part of his game, and it’s something that we (have) to study.”
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