Browns: 5 best defensive players of the regular season
By Chad Porto
2. Denzel Ward
Denzel Ward is no slouch. He’s a genuine Pro Bowl player but he’s having a hard time staying healthy. Ward has never played a full season and has missed 10 games already to start his young career. That’s concerning, especially since bodies break down more and more in football the older they get.
That said, Ward was an obvious game-changer when on the field during the 2020 regular season. You can quote any advanced stat line you want, but all you need to do is watch him play, and see the difference he made on the opposing team via tape. He made the Browns secondary competent, something they struggle to be when he’s out.
Ward had a solid season with 46 tackles, two interceptions, and 18 pass deflections. His 18 deflections are among the highest in the league across 12 games. He was a nightmare for opposing receivers and when the Browns had a pass rush, which wasn’t often, the defense actually looked like it could stop anyone.
The hope for 2021 is that the Browns finally pair Ward with another corner of close talent level so that the secondary can really flourish. Whether that’s a new vet, a rookie, or Greedy Williams finally getting healthy.
Ward is invaluable to this team and remains someone the team should continue to build around moving into the playoffs.