The Cleveland Browns need to start anew, yet again. All momentum that was built up under head coach Kevin Stefanski after 2023 came to a screeching halt in 2024, and was only further halted in 2025. In reality, Cleveland actually did well to win five games this past season given the chaotic quarterback situation the front office put together.
Ultimately, general manager Andrew Berry was retained, while Stefanski was let go and was quickly scooped up by the Atlanta Falcons. Now, Berry must get back to work in order to rebuild a Browns team that is very short on playmaking talent. Myles Garrett is the face of the franchise, leading a defense that was surprisingly great in 2025 despite having to carry an anemic offense.
Although there are rumors of a possible Garrett trade, Berry needs to build around the historic defensive talent. But in order to do so, Garrett may have to say goodbye to one of his longtime defensive teammates, who has been there nearly every step of the way during Garrett’s legendary career.
Denzel Ward’s contract could lead Browns to consider releasing him
Matt Okada of NFL.com recently took a look at potential notable cut candidates, and cornerback Denzel Ward makes an appearance as the designated guy for the Browns.
“At 29 years old, Ward may not be as elite as he once was but is still a solid corner with years left to give. The problem is the money. Ward carries a $32.9 million cap hit in 2026, highest on the team outside of Deshaun Watson, and the Browns could save $20 million by designating him as a post-June 1 cut. Cleveland is $2.3 million under the cap and needs heavy improvement across all areas of the roster to work its way out of the AFC North cellar.“
Okada admits that Ward still has plenty left in the tank; it’s simply a matter of money. Perhaps Cleveland can find a workaround in Ward’s contract, but he isn’t the elite lockdown corner he used to be – at least he wasn’t this past season.
According to Pro Football Focus, Ward’s 59.2 overall grade in 2025 ranked 70th out of 114 qualifying cornerbacks. It’s a far cry from his 2024 form, when he had a 80.4 PFF coverage grade. He’s just about to turn 29 years old, so he isn’t too far removed from the prime of his career, but injuries have taken a bit of a toll.
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