The Cleveland Browns have committed to keeping their most experienced defensive player through the foreseeable future. Veterans of the team reported for training camp in Berea on July 28, marking the start of a new season. A new deal has made Ward the highest-paid defensive back in NFL history, worth two million dollars annually.
The news was first shared by Adam Schefter of ESPN and Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. A source within the league confirmed that Ward’s new contract is real and binding. Ward, who is 29 years old, was chosen as the fourth overall pick in the 2018 draft.
After Myles Garrett was traded to the Rams, Ward became the longest-serving player in the franchise. Garrett had been the first pick in the 2017 draft and was a key figure for the team. During a minicamp on June 12, Ward competed against Luke Floriea in a pass-catching drill.
The Browns are currently in the middle of a rebuilding process after finishing with poor records in recent seasons. Speculation rose that Ward might be traded, especially after Garrett’s departure. This new contract removes any doubt about his future with the team.
It is the second time Ward has been named the highest-paid defensive back in the league. He previously held that title after signing a five-year, $100 million extension in 2022. That earlier contract had two years left but was not guaranteed.
With Ward’s future now secure, the new defensive coordinator can plan around his presence. Ward’s starting role alongside Tyson Campbell will remain stable under the new agreement. He earned his fifth Pro Bowl selection last season, continuing to be a standout player.
Before that, he tied Frank Minnifield for the most Pro Bowl appearances by a cornerback in franchise history. Ward expressed gratitude for the recognition and said he put a lot of effort into his career. He has never played every game in his eight-year career with the Browns.
Ward has missed at least five games in every season since entering the league. Over his career, Ward has suffered six concussions. He dealt with two concussions in the 2024 season.
In that same season, he also dealt with a calf and neck injury while playing in 15 of 17 games. Ward recorded one interception and 39 tackles during the season. He has played in 110 games with 107 starts over his career.
Ward has collected 18 interceptions in his time in the NFL. The deal was announced after Ward had already signed through 2027. His previous contract did not guarantee the final two years of his deal.
Ward’s new extension was worth five million dollars in 2022, which was also a record for his position. Last season, he played in 15 games and recorded 39 tackles, nine passes defensed, and one interception. He also earned his fifth Pro Bowl nod and third in three years.
Ward entered the NFL as the fourth overall pick in the draft. His new contract shows that the Browns are investing in their defensive future. Despite the team’s rebuilding efforts, the organization is not looking to completely overhaul its roster.
The Browns received two-time Pro Bowl pass-rusher Jared Verse and draft picks in the Myles Garrett trade. Ward will help provide continuity as the team adjusts to a new defensive coordinator. Ward made it clear that he wants to stay with the Browns.
He said during a celebrity softball game in June that he still wants to be part of the team. Ward spoke about his friendship with Garrett and said things are not lost in the process. He added that the team is focused on Ohio versus the rest of the world.
His desire to remain with the Browns was clear after Garrett’s departure. General Manager Andrew Berry said Ward is still playing at a high level. Ward also said he does not dwell on the possibility of being traded.
He said that wherever he ends up, it’s where he is supposed to be. Ward emphasized his love for the Cleveland Browns and his desire to stay. Ward and other veterans reported to training camp on Tuesday.
The first full training camp practice is scheduled for Wednesday, July 29. Ward has been a consistent presence in the league over eight seasons. He played in 15 games last season and made one interception.
During a final game of the season, Aaron Rodgers targeted Ward in the end zone three times. Ward’s performance has made him a key part of the team’s future plans. He will be a leader in the cornerback group, which lacks depth behind him and Tyson Campbell.
Ward’s experience also gives him a strong voice in the locker room with younger players.
IMAGE: Denzel Ward. Photo: Erik Drost / Wikimedia, taken 2019-11-14, CC BY 2.0