2021 NFL Draft selections, grades: Broncos earn an 'A' for taking Patrick Surtain with No. 9 overall pick

Here's what you need to know about the Alabama cornerback after his selection in the NFL Draft

The Denver Broncos selected Alabama cornerback Patrick Surtain II with the No. 9 overall pick in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft on Thursday. The CBS Sports NFL Draft team breaks down the pick below, including a grade for the pick and more on Surtain, including his strengths and weaknesses, his NFL comp and more.

1. Broncos: A  

Pete Prisco: I love his game. He is one of those corners who will be sound from the minute he steps on the field. He will be a star.

NFL Draft profile

NFL comp: Antonio Cromartie
Best trait: Calmness in press man

College	Height	Weight	Hand size	Arm length	Wingspan
Alabama	6-2	208	10	32 1/2	78 1/2

Strengths

• Technically sound in press coverage
• Serious length to deal with big receivers on the perimeter
• Super experienced in a complex defense in college

Weaknesses

• Not the twitchiest, most sudden corner in this class
• Has problems finding the football at times
• Doesn't play to his timed speed on the field

40-yard dash	Bench press	Vertical jump	Broad jump	Three-cone drill	Short shuttle
4.42	18	39	131	n/a	n/a