Denver Broncos cornerback Riley Moss is having a noteworthy season, recognized as one of the top players in the NFL at his position. However, he’s also been penalized for defensive pass interference more than any other player this year.
His teammate, Patrick Surtain II, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, suspects that Moss’s race might be influencing these calls. Moss stands out as one of the rare white cornerbacks in the league, leading Surtain to wonder if this is impacting the officiating. During an interview, Surtain expressed, “Riley’s getting hosed, brother. Honestly, I think they’re racially profiling him. The flags are just terrible.” He shared his thoughts while discussing the controversial calls that Moss has faced.
Surtain recalled a specific incident from the Broncos’ recent 44-24 victory over the Dallas Cowboys, highlighting a play where Moss was flagged despite being in an ideal position against CeeDee Lamb. “You don’t get it. He was in perfect position, playing the hand, and yet they flagged him. What’s that about?” Surtain exclaimed. When Detroit Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold asked if Moss was being targeted unfairly, Surtain affirmed, “Yeah, they’re profiling him.”
Moss has accumulated defensive pass interference penalties in seven of eight games this season, with five being accepted according to nflpenalties.com. At 25 years old, he’s in his third season and is now facing added pressure. With Surtain expected to be sidelined for several weeks due to a torn pectoral muscle, Moss will likely have to cover the opposing team’s top wide receiver moving forward.
So far this season, Moss has recorded nine passes defensed and 38 combined tackles for the 6-2 Broncos. Fox News Digital has attempted to reach out to the Broncos, the NFL, and the NFL Referees Association regarding Surtain’s claims.
