Browns extend Denzel Ward amid mixed reviews from experts
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 21, 2026, 10:55 PM
Last updated Aug 21, 2026
The Cleveland Browns have extended the contract of cornerback Denzel Ward. ESPN's Seth Walder included the extension among ten "interesting" deals this offseason, labeling it an "unforced error" despite Ward's solid ranking among cornerbacks. After declining coverage stats in 2024, Ward rebounded in 2025, but concerns about age and contractual control linger. The decision comes as the Browns aim to secure one of their franchise's top defenders for the future.
- •Cleveland Browns extend cornerback Denzel Ward's contract.
- •ESPN calls the extension an 'unforced error.'
- •Ward ranked seventh among cornerbacks by coaches and executives.
- •His coverage statistics improved significantly in 2025 after a downturn in 2024.
- •Ward still had two years left on his previous deal at the time of the extension.
- 10:55 PMYahoo Sports — Browns CB Denzel Ward's contract extension earns a label from ESPN
"ESPN has a unique vantage point on the Denzel Ward extension.
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