The Lead
The Broncos' defense struggled against the Browns on Thursday night, but rookie cornerback Pat Surtain continues to be a bright spot for Denver.
While Surtain did allow a touchdown of the season against Cleveland, it was the only completion he allowed vs. the Browns, according to PFF. Surtain also recorded two passes defensed in the matchup.
"Against the Browns, Surtain was targeted six times, allowing a one-yard touchdown catch and nothing else while breaking up one of the incompletions," Pro Football Focus's Sam Monson wrote.
Surtain also continued his lockdown coverage, extending his streak of preventing long passes. On 211 coverage snaps through the first seven weeks of the season, Surtain has not allowed a single completion of over 20 yards, according to PFF.
Surtain's performance on Thursday night also earned him a nod from PFF as they graded this year's first round picks through Week 7. According to PFF, although Surtain has not been perfect, he has certainly displayed big-play potential and solid coverage in most matchups this season
"He has an easy playing style in coverage and has already shown he can match up with high-quality NFL receivers," Monson wrote. "Now, all he has left to do is maintain it every week."
Below the Fold
Despite a string of losses,rookie running back Javonte Williams continues to showcase his potential each week.
Williams continues to challenge opposing defenses, leading the league with 0.33 forced missed tackles per attempt, according to PFF. Williams also ranks third in the league in forced missed tackles with 23 through Week 7, despite splitting the workload in the backfield with RB Melvin Gordon III.
While Williams has consistently provided highlights in the run game, he has yet to have a big impact in the receiving game. At least, that was the case until the Week 7 matchup with Cleveland.
Williams recorded his first career receiving touchdown on Thursday night vs. the Browns, with a six-reception, 32-yard receiving performance in addition to his four rushes for 20 yards.
