The Lead
The Broncos' secondary will have some extra motivation on Sunday.
Members of the "No Fly Zone," including Aqib Talib, Chris Harris Jr., T.J. Ward, Darian Stewart, Bradley Roby and David Bruton Jr., will return to Empower Field at Mile High for Denver's Week 11 game against the Falcons. And for cornerback Pat Surtain II, it will be a unique experience that could provide the team with a spark ahead of the matchup.
"I watched them a lot growing up," Surtain said Wednesday. "I always remember it was them and the 'Legion of Boom.' Those two secondaries ... just kept on producing big-time numbers."
The "No Fly Zone" anchored Denver's top-ranked pass defense in 2015 that helped lead the Broncos to a third world championship. In 2016, five of the six players returned and again allowed the fewest passing yards in the league. The group combined for 10 Pro Bowl appearances during their Denver tenures, with Talib and Harris also both earning first-team All-Pro selections.
As the group returns home to take part in pregame festivities and be recognized in the second quarter as Broncos legends, Surtain looks forward to the opportunity to continue building a connection with some of the best to ever do it in Denver.
"I still communicate [with them]," Surtain said. "I just saw Chris Harris for the first time when [he] came here to honor his name [and career]. I've talked with Talib a few times, too. So, it's going to be pretty awesome to see them come back. I can't wait to meet all of them. It's going to be a great experience, for sure."
The last time Surtain had the opportunity to meet with a Broncos' defensive legend, he posted his best performance of the season. Surtain swapped jerseys with Hall of Famer Champ Bailey ahead of a Week 5 matchup with the Raiders, and he went on to record two interceptions — including a 100-yard pick six — during that game.
As Denver's defense takes the field this Sunday in front of the Super Bowl 50 champions, Surtain believes there could once again be some Mile High Magic in the air.
"They're definitely going to bring on that presence," Surtain said. "I already know they brought a lot of energy and grit to the game. So, I know they're going to definitely pass that over towards us, as well. It's going to be exciting to see, for sure."
