The Cincinnati Bengals are relying on a fully recovered Joe Burrow to spearhead their resurgence towards a Super Bowl run in 2024. However, they might seek to fortify their potent offense with an enhanced defense.
Under the leadership of Mike Brown and Duke Tobin, the Bengals have made notable improvements in the safety position by re-signing Vonn Bell and acquiring Geno Stone from division rival Baltimore Ravens. Yet, if Cincinnati intends to pursue a comparable upgrade at cornerback, exploring the trade market could unveil a promising addition with significant potential.
Possible Cincinnati Bengals-Denver Broncos Patrick Surtain Trade
Winning in Cincinnati is about to become costly.
In 2025, Burrow’s cap will almost double to $46.25 million. This increase adds pressure for the Bengals to make decisions regarding wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, whether to retain them or explore trade options.
Given these circumstances, it wouldn’t be surprising if the Bengals went all-in to challenge the Kansas City Chiefs for the top spot in the AFC this season.
With 11 picks in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft and a full set of selections in 2025, Cincinnati, under the leadership of Brown, Tobin, and the team, has the resources to be aggressive. Considering the Broncos’ focus on rebuilding, particularly with uncertainties at quarterback, they could be an ideal trade partner.
Overall, this trade has the potential to benefit both sides. The Cincinnati Bengals have agreed to a trade with the Denver Broncos: Bengals Trade: Their 2024 first-round pick (No. 18), 2024 third-round pick (No. 80 overall), and their 2025 first-round pick.
Broncos Trade: Patrick Surtain and their 2024 fourth-round pick (No. 121 – via Miami).
By acquiring Surtain, the Bengals aim to bolster their cornerback position with a proven playmaker, offering a strong defensive response against the top receivers in the AFC. In return, the Broncos benefit from cap relief, especially if Surtain is traded with a post-June 1 designation, potentially freeing up around $3.51 million in spending flexibility for the current season.
What Patrick Surtain Would Bring Bengals
Surtain has earned a reputation as one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL. With the current situation of the Broncos, Surtain’s name has been frequently mentioned in trade talks during an offseason marked by Denver’s release of quarterback Russell Wilson, resulting in a significant $85 million cap hit. According to Pro Football Focus, Surtain limited opposing quarterbacks to a 93.9 passer rating when targeted last season. He achieved a career-high of 69 total tackles and one interception in the 2023 campaign. The Bengals have ample cap space and could easily accommodate a substantial portion of guaranteed money for a new contract extension for Surtain this season, considering they still have $24.5 million in cap space available. Undoubtedly, Surtain is a cornerstone player, but the Broncos are currently facing financial constraints. On the field, Surtain would complement Cam Taylor-Britt, forming a formidable cornerback duo. Taylor-Britt is coming off a standout season in his NFL career. A significant trade bringing in Surtain would indicate the Bengals’ determination to assemble a competitive team for a Super Bowl run in 2024. It would also provide Cincinnati’s defense with a foundational player for both the current season and the future.