Denzel Ward

Ward, a 2018 Pro Bowler as a rookie, returns as the Browns' top cornerback. He has yet to play a full NFL season and finished 2020 with 46 tackles, a career-high 18 passes defensed, two interceptions and a forced fumble over 12 games. If the old adage "a rising tide lifts all boats" is true, Ward could return to the Pro Bowl. Part of the organization's plan this offseason was to improve at every level of the defense, with notable additions on the back end, an approach that figures to improve the team context around Ward, whose fifth-year contract option for 2022 was picked up by the Browns.

Ward, the No. 4 overall pick in 2018, did not repeat his Pro-Bowl rookie season, but he was the Browns' top cover man in 2019, per Pro Football Focus. He struggled to get on the field due to a hamstring issue and later was limited by an ankle, finishing with 44 tackles, two interceptions and a touchdown. He's yet to play a full 16 games over his two NFL seasons, so at some point durability could be an issue that creeps into seasonal outlooks. If he's healthy, the Browns will ask Ward will go toe-to-toe with opponent's best wideouts.

The No. 4 overall pick in the 2018 draft molded an impressive rookie campaign, and the sky is the limit for the young defensive back. Ward proved to be a ballhawk in college and during his first year with the Browns. He intercepted three passes, forced a fumble and added another 11 pass defenses. While his tackling did improve from early in his rookie season, boosting that area of his game will be key if he wants to take the next step.

The fourth overall selection in the 2018 NFL Draft, Ward immediately improves Cleveland's defense and projects to step right into one of the team's starting cornerback slots alongside E.J. Gaines. At 5-11, 190, Ward has the talent to handle receivers on the outside well due to his footwork and ability to match change of speeds. During his final year at Ohio State, he deflected 15 passes while adding two interceptions.