New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers faces an All-Pro cornerback every day in practice, so he definitely knows one when he sees one.
While the Jets have two-time first-team All-Pro Sauce Gardner, as well as highly regarded cornerback DJ Reed and cornerback Michael Carter II, their Week 4 opponent also has a top-tier offensive player in its secondary. Denver Broncos franchise cornerback Patrick Surtain II is a first-team All-Pro and two-time Pro Bowl selection.
“I feel like there are more legitimate No. 1 corners in the league this year than we’ve seen in years past. We had one of the best, if not the best, this week,” Rodgers said during his weekly Tuesday appearance on the site. The Pat McAfee Show“Obviously, I love our guys in New York. Not to mention our guys. Pat Surtain is listed as one of the best cornerbacks in the league by almost everybody you talk to and rightfully so.”
Rodgers, a four-time NFL MVP, explained how Surtain’s ability puts the 2021 first-round draft pick in an elite tier.
“He’s a top player. He plays in the slot. He plays outside. He tackles. He’s got great ball skills. He stays on his hip. He’s incredibly savvy and patient. He’s a hell of a player,” Rodgers said.
Rodgers, 40, who has 480 career touchdown passes, praised Surtain a little further when speaking to reporters at Florham Park on Wednesday.
“Pat is one of the best players in the league at any position,” Rodgers said.
When the Jets host the Broncos on Sept. 29 at MetLife Stadium, Surtain will face the challenge of slowing down Rodgers’ top target. New York WR1 Garrett Wilson has 15 receptions for 150 yards and a touchdown in the first three games while helping free up targets for Allen Lazard and others.
“Pat’s a phenomenal player. Garrett’s a phenomenal player. It’s going to be a good matchup, those two guys,” Rodgers said.
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