Recent weeks have seen a significant shift in the Defensive Player of the Year race, with two Denver Broncos players, Patrick Surtain II and Nik Bonitto, emerging as strong contenders. Previously outside the top rankings, both are now positioned second and third respectively, trailing only T.J. Watt of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Surtain has excelled in coverage, allowing minimal receptions and showcasing his ability to shut down elite receivers, while Bonitto has made a mark with his impressive sack totals and impactful plays, including a pick-six.
With three games remaining, Bonitto's path to potentially surpassing Watt looks promising, especially given the upcoming matchups against quarterbacks who are frequently sacked. The emergence of both players in the award conversation is a testament to the Broncos' defensive prowess this season.