The Cleveland Browns took many by surprise when they selected cornerback Denzel Ward with the fourth overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. However, Ward feels his destiny was a long time coming.
As a Cleveland native, he could not be more excited to represent his hometown in the 2018 NFL season. Ward told NFL Network's Willie McGinest that the script could not be written any better.
“Honestly, it couldn't be written any better,” Ward said. “To grow up in Cleveland then go to Ohio State. That's the school I wanted to play at anyways when I was in high school and then get drafted by my hometown team, the Browns. It couldn't have been written any better than that.”
Ward certainly did his part to make the dream become a reality. He established himself as one of the best cornerbacks in college football last season at Ohio State. Although he was viewed as one of the best defensive prospects in the draft, not many pegged the Browns to take him fourth overall. However, it is clear that they were enamored with what the hometown kid brings to the table.
As inspiring a story as it is, one can imagine a sense of pressure building for the rookie. He has an obligation to make an immediate impact due to being a top-5 pick. Furthermore, his status as a local likely brings an added desire to help Cleveland out of its recent rut. Fortunately, he seems to be off to a good start. Reports out of training camp suggest Ward has earned a spot on the first-team defense.
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