Story perspectives

Browns Extend Denzel Ward, Restoring Highest-Paid DB Title

7/29/2026

Summary

Story summary

Denzel Ward signed a two-year, $62.2 million extension with Cleveland Browns, guaranteeing $52.3 million and averaging $31.1 million, making him the league’s highest-paid defensive back again.
Ward said he “wants to be here,” with GM Andrew Berry confirming he will be kept after trading Myles Garrett.
He posted 39 tackles, one interception and nine passes defended in 15 games in 2025 while the Browns rebuild under coach Todd Monken and coordinator Mike Rutenberg.

History

Historical Context

After the Jaguars traded Jalen Ramsey to the Los Angeles Rams in October 2019, the Rams locked him into a five-year, $100 million extension on September 9, 2020, with $71.2 million guaranteed, making him the league’s highest-paid cornerback. The deal sparked a wave of premium contracts, exemplified by the Browns’ $62.2 million extension for Denzel Ward in 2025, reshaping salary-cap strategies.

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Story summary

Denzel Ward signed a two-year, $62.2 million extension with Cleveland Browns, guaranteeing $52.3 million and averaging $31.1 million, making him the league’s highest-paid defensive back again.
Ward said he “wants to be here,” with GM Andrew Berry confirming he will be kept after trading Myles Garrett.
He posted 39 tackles, one interception and nine passes defended in 15 games in 2025 while the Browns rebuild under coach Todd Monken and coordinator Mike Rutenberg.

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