Denzel Ward Signs Two-Year, $62.2 Million Extension with the Cleveland Browns

The Cleveland Browns and cornerback Denzel Ward have reached a two-year contract extension worth $62.2 million, including $52.3 million fully guaranteed. The deal’s $31.1 million average annual value makes Ward the highest-paid defensive back in NFL history for the second time in his career. The agreement was reported by multiple insiders and confirmed by the team’s front office.

ESPNBrowns complicate Steelers’ contract negotiations with Joey Porter Jr NFL Network: Browns, CB Denzel Ward agree to two-year, $62.2 million extension ESPN247Sports

Ward, the No. 4 overall pick of the 2018 draft out of Ohio State, has been a fixture in Cleveland’s secondary for eight seasons. After the Browns traded defensive end Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams, Ward became the longest-tenured player on the roster. He previously signed a five-year, $100 million extension in April 2022 that left him with two years but no guaranteed salary remaining. The new extension secures his place through the 2026 season and follows the team’s recent move to retain its remaining veteran defensive backs, including safety Grant Delpit’s three-year, $48 million extension signed the day after Ward’s deal.

ESPNESPN247SportsNFL Network: Browns, CB Denzel Ward agree to two-year, $62.2 million extension Browns complicate Steelers’ contract negotiations with Joey Porter Jr Denzel Ward signs 2-year contract extension with the Browns

• Career totals: 361 tackles, 104 passes defended (most by any player since 2018), 18 interceptions, 4 forced fumbles, 6 fumble recoveries, 0.5 sack.

Denzel Ward signs 2-year contract extension with the Browns

• Recent production: 39 tackles, 1 interception, 9 pass breakups in 15 games last season.

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• Accolades: Five Pro Bowl selections, including three consecutive appearances since 2023.

NFL Network: Browns, CB Denzel Ward agree to two-year, $62.2 million extension

• Contract specifics: $31.1 million per year; $52.3 million guaranteed; second highest-paid DB contract after a previous 2022 extension.

Browns complicate Steelers’ contract negotiations with Joey Porter Jr

General manager Andrew Berry emphasized the desire to keep Ward, noting the player’s “Ohio background” and his role as a leader in the secondary. Berry also highlighted Ward’s continued high-level performance, citing a 61.3 percent completion rate allowed and an 88.1 passer rating when targeted. Defensive backs coach Brandon Lynch described Ward as “process-oriented,” praising his dedication to detail and consistency. Ward himself expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue playing for the team he grew up watching, saying he “still wants to be here” and that the money “is appreciated” but the chance to play the game remains his primary motivation.

Denzel Ward signs 2-year contract extension with the Browns

• “I've come a long way. I never really expected all of this to come about it,” — Denzel Ward

Denzel Ward signs 2-year contract extension with the Browns

With Ward’s contract secured, the Browns appear focused on building a competitive roster around a stable defensive backfield while seeking to address quarterback needs on offense. The team’s front office will need to manage salary-cap implications as it evaluates extensions for other secondary players such as Grant Delpit, Ronnie Hickman and Grant Delpit.

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