The Cleveland Browns have made a major splash in the NFL by signing a two-year, $62.2 million extension with cornerback Denzel Ward, making him the highest-paid cornerback in the league.
According to the NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the new deal is worth $31 million per season, surpassing the previous highest-paid cornerback, Los Angeles Rams' Trent McDuffie. Ward had two years left on his original five-year, $100.5 million rookie extension, which was signed in 2018.
Ward, 29, has spent his entire eight-year career with the Browns, who selected him with the No. 4 overall pick out of Ohio State. The cornerback had 39 total tackles and an interception last season, his eighth in the league.
A significant portion of Ward's new contract is guaranteed, with $52.3 million of the $62.2 million extension secured, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. This deal will keep Ward in Cleveland through the 2029 campaign.
The Browns' decision to lock down Ward comes as the team looks to rebuild after a 5-12 season last year, missing the playoffs for the sixth time since he joined the franchise. The team has hired head coach Todd Monken to replace Kevin Stefanski, and will open the 2026 season against the Jacksonville Jaguars on September 13.
Ward's new contract reflects his importance to the Browns' defense, and it's clear that the team values his skills and experience. The Browns will be looking to Ward to help lead their defense to success in the coming seasons.
The Browns' decision to extend Ward's contract also has implications for the rest of the league, as it sets a new standard for cornerback salaries. With $52.3 million of his new contract guaranteed, Ward's deal is likely to influence other teams' negotiations with their own cornerbacks.
As the Browns look to the future, Ward's new contract will be a major factor in their plans. With the extension now in place, the team can focus on the upcoming season and how Ward will fit into their defensive strategy.
Source: Yahoo Sports