After extending running back Nick Chubb, Denzel Ward needs to be the next player that the Cleveland Browns give an extension to.
The Cleveland Browns agreed to terms on a much deserved extension with Nick Chubb and now it is time to move forward with other extension eligible players. There is one specific player the team should extend next and that is Denzel Ward.
Now that does not mean they need to rush and get an extension done right this minute. What it does mean is that when it is time to agree to terms on their next extension that player should be Denzel Ward. Ward is the second-best player on the defense in addition to being one of the better corners in the league. Keeping this caliber of player under contract beyond his rookie deal should be their next top priority.
In three seasons Denzel Ward has allowed completion percentages of 51.1, 48.2, and 54.3 with quarterback ratings of 72.8, 62.2, and 78.3. During that span Ward has successfully defended 40 passes along with seven interceptions with one going back for a touchdown.
The one issue that seems to be a concern to some when it comes to Denzel Ward is durability. Ward is yet to play a full season, (the most games he has appeared in is 13 during his rookie campaign), but it should be noted that he is not suffering from recurring issues, missing time due to a concussion as a rookie, a hamstring injury in 2019, and a groin injury this past season. The fact that it is not the same injury over and over again should give some solace to those concerned about long term health concerns.
While some believe other players should take precedent over Denzel Ward, such as Wyatt Teller or Baker Mayfield, but the fact of the matter is that the team needs to solidify building block type players on the defensive side of the ball. When it comes to Mayfield the team needs to see more consistency from his play. In regards to Teller they should not be placing a priority on a right guard, no matter how good he is.
What it comes down to is prioritizing which players the Browns want to keep long term. Cleveland has already accomplished this by extending Chubb and Myles Garrett. Denzel Ward is the logical next player to receive an extension considering his consistent level of play on the field and the fact it would give the Browns two franchise cornerstones on the defensive side of the ball.
