NFL Star Denzel Ward Becomes Minority Owner of the Cleveland Guardians

Veteran cornerback Denzel Ward, a five-time Pro Bowler entering his ninth NFL season with the Cleveland Browns, has been added to the ownership group of Major League Baseball’s Cleveland Guardians as a minority investor. The move follows Ward’s recent two-year, $62 million contract extension with the Browns, which includes $52 million guaranteed and made him the league’s highest-paid cornerback at the time of signing.

Newsweek

Ward’s contract was finalized earlier this offseason, solidifying his status as a cornerstone of the Browns’ defense. In addition to his on-field contributions, Ward has been active in community work through the Make Them Know Your Name Foundation. His deep roots in Cleveland—having grown up in the area—have long linked him to local charitable and civic initiatives, positioning him as a natural fit for broader involvement in the city’s sports landscape.

Newsweek

The Browns organization highlighted Ward’s hometown connection, emphasizing that his dual roles on the field and in the Guardians’ front office reflect a shared dedication to serving Cleveland fans.

Newsweek

• “Cleveland is my hometown. I’m so blessed to be able to show up for this city on the field and now as a part of the Guardians organization,” — Denzel Ward, browns signed veteran

Newsweek

Ward’s entry into the Guardians’ ownership group mirrors a recent trend of cross-sport investments, exemplified by Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce’s part-ownership stake announced earlier in the year.

Newsweek