Patrick Surtain in an Eagles Uniform
The Philadelphia Eagles are looking to bolster their secondary, and a recent trade proposal suggests a potential solution: acquiring cornerback Patrick Surtain II from the Denver Broncos. This blockbuster trade, proposed by Lou Scataglia of Predominantly Orange, would send three second-round draft picks—two in 2024 and one in 2025—to Denver in exchange for the star cornerback. This move would give the Eagles one of the league’s premier defensive backs.
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Scataglia argues that the combined value of the three second-round picks, according to the 2024 NFL Trade Value Chart, is equivalent to the 13th overall pick in the draft. Essentially, the Broncos would be trading Surtain for the value of a mid-first-round selection. This raises the crucial question: Would Denver agree to such a deal?
The Broncos exercised Surtain’s fifth-year option, meaning he’s under contract for two more seasons. This gives Denver leverage and eliminates the immediate need to trade him. However, his trade value is arguably at its peak now, given his current contract situation. A rebuilding team like the Broncos might be tempted to capitalize on this value and acquire draft capital to build for the future. Trading Surtain now would yield a higher return than waiting until next year when he’s closer to free agency.
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Despite the potential value of three second-round picks, it’s difficult to imagine the Broncos parting with a talent like Surtain without a first-round pick in return. His performance speaks for itself. In the 2023 season, Surtain started every game, recording 69 tackles, one interception, and 12 passes defended. This performance earned him his second consecutive Pro Bowl selection. His consistent excellence and potential for future growth make him a valuable asset.
Surtain, a former first-round pick (ninth overall) in the 2021 NFL Draft out of the University of Alabama, has quickly established himself as a top-tier cornerback. He even earned First-Team All-Pro honors in 2022, solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s best.
For the Eagles, acquiring a player of Surtain’s caliber would significantly upgrade their defense. If a deal can be struck, it would be a major win for Philadelphia. The potential impact of Surtain on the Eagles’ secondary makes this trade proposal a compelling scenario for both teams involved.
