Broncos Opt Against IR for Pat Surtain; Cornerback to Miss Texans Game

Denver Broncos cornerback Pat Surtain, who sustained a pectoral injury in the team's Week 8 victory over the Cowboys, will not be placed on injured reserve, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Media. This decision means Surtain will avoid missing at least four games, though he is confirmed out for the upcoming game against the Texans. The team's schedule includes games against the Raiders and Chiefs before a Week 12 bye, which could provide additional recovery time without Surtain missing further action. Surtain had started all eight games this season for Denver, recording 27 tackles and nine passes defensed prior to his injury.