Cleveland Browns cornerback Denzel Ward has made it clear that he still wants to remain with the franchise, even after the organization traded superstar defensive end Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams on Monday in one of the NFL’s most shocking offseason moves.
The Garrett trade immediately sparked speculation that Cleveland could begin a broader roster overhaul, leading to questions about the future of several veteran stars, including Ward. However, multiple reports indicate the Browns have no plans to move their Pro Bowl cornerback.
According to ESPN NFL insider Jeremy Fowler, Cleveland is not making Ward available in trade discussions despite sending Garrett to Los Angeles. Fowler reported that the Browns are a “hard no” when it comes to trading Ward and are not conducting a fire sale following the blockbuster deal.
Ward, a five-time Pro Bowl selection and former fourth overall draft pick, has spent his entire NFL career with the Browns since entering the league in 2018. The Ohio State product has developed into one of the NFL’s premier cornerbacks and remains a cornerstone of Cleveland’s defense.
Ward plans to lead defense
The Garrett trade sent the reigning Defensive Player of the Year to the Rams in exchange for edge rusher Jared Verse and multiple draft picks, signaling a significant shift for the Browns’ roster. Cleveland general manager Andrew Berry has pushed back against the notion that the move represents a rebuild, emphasizing that the organization believes it can remain competitive while adding long-term assets.
Several outlets, including The Score, Pro Football Talk, Yahoo Sports, and Pro Football Rumors, echoed Fowler’s report that Ward is expected to remain in Cleveland and is viewed as a foundational player moving forward.
While Garrett’s departure marks the end of an era for the Browns, Ward appears committed to helping lead the next chapter. For now, Cleveland’s front office and its star cornerback remain aligned on one thing: keeping Ward in a Browns uniform for the foreseeable future.
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