Subscribe
Follow Us
The Cleveland Browns took until the very cusp of training camp to complete their business, but they’ve finally sealed the deal with their key rookies. After signing No. 1 overall pick Baker Mayfield on Tuesday, it’s now No. 4 overall pick Denzel Ward’s turn to sign on the dotted line to complete the rookie deals for Browns' draft class.
The #Browns have agreed to terms with No. 4 pick CB Denzel Ward on his four-year rookie contract. That’s all of them.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 25, 2018
Specific financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, but Ward's contract is a standard four-year pact with a fifth-year option.
Ward, who was an All-America selection in his last year for Ohio State, was considered the top cornerback prospect in the draft. Although, his selection at No. 4 came as a bit of surprise, especially with defensive end Bradley Chubb still available.
Article Continues Below
But Browns GM John Dorsey revealed that they had Chubb and Ward equally graded on their board. And as defensive coordinator Gregg Williams explained, they believe Ward is an excellent press coverage corner who should be a perfect fit for their defensive system.
Ward enters training camp after impressing during the team's spring workouts. His strong performances led to his quick promotion to the first team in OTAs, and his new teammates also advocated for him to be moved up the depth chart.
And now, the rookie will be expected to be the main man in a completely revamped Browns cornerback depth chart this season. They also signed veterans E.J. Gaines, T.J. Carrie, and Terrance Mitchell in free agency to improve a pass defense which was among the worst in the league last season.
Ward’s signing leaves third overall pick Sam Darnold, Roquan Smith and Dante Pettis as the only 2018 draft picks without contracts.
