As a true freshman at Alabama in 2018, Surtain II started 12 games and recorded 37 tackles and an
interception.[5][6][7] He returned to Alabama as a starter in 2019.[8][9]
As a sophomore in
2019, he totaled 42 tackles, three forced fumbles, eight pass breakups, two interceptions (24 return yards), a fumble recovery, and one quarterback pressure.[10]
In
2020, he again returned as a starter at cornerback, earning several preseason All-American honors.[10]
He was named as the defensive MVP of the 2021
Rose Bowl.[11]
The
Denver Broncos selected Surtain in the first round, with the ninth overall pick, of the
2021 NFL draft.[14] On May 18, 2021, Surtain signed his four-year rookie contract with Denver, worth $20.9 million.[15]
During Week 2 on September 19, 2021, making his first career start due to an injury to
Ronald Darby, Surtain recorded his first career interception off of fellow rookie
Trevor Lawrence in a 23–13 road victory over the
Jacksonville Jaguars.[16]
In Week 12, Surtain had five tackles, two interceptions, including a 70-yard pick-six in a 28-13 win over the
Los Angeles Chargers, earning AFC Defensive Player of the Week.[17][18] He started in 16 games as a rookie, only missing the regular season finale. He finished with 58 total tackles (45 solo), four interceptions, and 14 passes defended.[19]
In the 2022 season, Surtain started in all 17 games. He finished with 60 total tackles (46 solo), two interceptions, ten passes defended, and one forced fumble.[22] For his 2022 season, Surtain earned
Pro Bowl and first team
All-Pro honors.[23][24]
On April 23, 2024, the Broncos picked up the fifth-year option on Surtain's contract.[25]