Cleveland Browns: 5 players who need a great Week 1 game vs Titans
5. Denzel Ward
It’s been a quiet preseason for Browns’ corner Denzel Ward, but now it’s time for the Cleveland native to remind us all why he was the fourth pick in the 2018 draft.
When Ward got on the field, he was tremendous. A selection to the Pro Bowl validated was truly was a great rookie season. Unfortunately, he suffered two concussions, which raised concerns over his longevity and ability to tackle without suffering another concussion.
He’s back and healthy and a key part of the secondary and the Browns are going to need him against the Titans.
Tennessee is still trying to figure out if Marcus Mariota is a franchise quarterback, and to get their answer, they’ve surrounded the Oregon product with some nice weapons staring with Corey Davis.
Ward should see plenty of matchups against Davis, but the Titans do have other weapons in Tajae Sharp and slot receiver Adam Humphries.
Terrance Mitchell won the competition at the second outside corner spot and will start opposite of Ward, but it will be interesting to see how the Browns incorporate second-round pick Greedy Williams into the game.
In the secondary, free safety Damarious Randall is playing for a contract and should continue to make plays, while Morgan Burnett replaces Jabrill Peppers at strong safety.
It’s been heavily reported how the Browns have used three safeties and two linebackers, which means we may also see a lot of Jermaine Whitehead.