Denzel Ward Injury Update, What happened to Denzel Ward?
by Jency | Updated Sep 08, 2023
Denzel Ward Injury update
Cleveland Browns' star cornerback Denzel Ward remains on the road to recovery from a concussion as the team gears up for their season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals. While Ward's participation in limited stretching and individual drills during practice is a positive development, his status for the upcoming game is still uncertain. Ward sustained his fourth reported concussion in late August, and the Browns are taking a cautious approach to ensure his well-being. The team understands the importance of having Ward available, especially when facing a formidable Bengals' receiving group that includes Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Tyler Boyd. Ward's history of success against the Bengals, with three career interceptions (two returned for touchdowns) against them, underscores his significance as the Browns' top coverage defender.
As Ward continues to progress through the concussion protocol, the Browns and their fans remain hopeful that he will be ready to take the field on Sunday. However, the team is also prepared to adjust their game plan if necessary, with Martin Emerson Jr. potentially stepping in for Ward if he's unable to play. Ultimately, Ward's availability will depend on his ability to meet specific recovery benchmarks, and the Browns are prioritizing his health and well-being above all else as they prepare for a crucial divisional matchup to kick off the season.
What happened to Denzel Ward?
Cleveland Browns' standout cornerback Denzel Ward has been dealing with a concussion that has raised concerns about his availability for the team's season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals. Ward suffered his fourth reported concussion during the Browns' preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs on August 26. Since then, he has been kept out of full practice sessions, as the team follows the NFL's concussion protocol to ensure his safety. While Ward has shown some progress, participating in limited stretching and individual drills, his return to the field remains uncertain as the team closely monitors his recovery.
Ward's absence from the lineup could have a significant impact on the Browns, especially considering his track record of success against the Bengals, with three career interceptions, two of which he returned for touchdowns, against the divisional rivals. The Browns' coaching staff and fans are hopeful that Ward will meet the necessary benchmarks in his recovery to be cleared for the season opener, but the team is prepared to make adjustments in his absence, with Martin Emerson Jr. potentially stepping into his role. Ultimately, the Browns prioritize Ward's health and well-being above all else as they navigate this injury concern heading into a crucial divisional matchup.
Who is Denzel Ward?
Denzel Ward is an American football cornerback who plays in the National Football League (NFL) for the Cleveland Browns. Born on April 28, 1997, Ward attended Nordonia High School in Macedonia, Ohio, where he was a standout athlete, excelling in both football and track and field. He committed to Ohio State University to play college football and continued to build his reputation as a skilled cornerback during his college career under coach Urban Meyer.
In the 2018 NFL Draft, Denzel Ward was selected by the Cleveland Browns as the fourth overall pick, making him one of the top cornerback prospects in the draft. He quickly made an impact in his rookie season, earning Pro Bowl honors and establishing himself as a key player for the Browns' defense. Ward has continued to be a vital part of the Browns' secondary and has received accolades for his performance, including Pro Bowl selections.
Name
Denzel Ward
Born
April 28, 1997 (age 26 years)
Birthplace
Macedonia, Ohio, United States
Weight
86 kg
Height
1.8 m (180 cm)
Date Joined
July 25, 2018 (Cleveland Browns)
Current Team
Cleveland Browns (#21 / Cornerback)
Parents
Nicole Ward (Mother), Paul Ward (Father)
Education
Nordonia High School
Denzel Ward Age
Denzel Ward, born on April 28, 1997, is currently in his mid-20s. As of September 2021, he was 24 years old. Ward's youth is noteworthy considering his accomplishments in the NFL, where he has established himself as a top cornerback for the Cleveland Browns at a relatively young age. His career trajectory and potential for continued success make him a promising talent in professional football, with many years ahead to make significant contributions to his team.
Denzel Ward Nationality
Denzel Ward is an American football player, and as such, his nationality is American. He was born and raised in the United States, and he pursued his football career at both the high school and collegiate levels in Ohio. His journey from Nordonia High School to Ohio State University and eventually to the NFL with the Cleveland Browns reflects his American background and his participation in the American football system.
Ward's American nationality is a common characteristic among NFL players, as the league primarily consists of athletes from the United States. His achievements in American football, including his selection to the Pro Bowl and his standout performances for the Cleveland Browns, have contributed to his recognition as a talented American football player in the NFL.
Denzel Ward Career
Denzel Ward's career has been characterized by impressive achievements and a rapid rise to prominence in the National Football League (NFL).
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College Career: Ward played college football at Ohio State University, where he was a standout cornerback. He steadily improved over his college career and became a starter during his junior year in 2017.
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NFL Draft and Rookie Season (2018): Denzel Ward declared for the 2018 NFL Draft after his junior season and was selected by the Cleveland Browns as the fourth overall pick. In his rookie season, he made an immediate impact, earning Pro Bowl honors and being named to the NFL All-Rookie Team. Ward's performance included multiple interceptions, pass deflections, and key plays in the Browns' secondary.
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Continued Excellence: Ward continued to be a key figure in the Browns' defense in the following seasons. His ability to cover top-tier receivers and make crucial plays in the secondary solidified his reputation as one of the top young cornerbacks in the NFL.
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Pro Bowl Selections: Ward's consistent performance led to multiple Pro Bowl selections, showcasing his recognition as one of the league's premier cornerbacks.
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Contract Extension (2022): In April 2022, Denzel Ward signed a substantial five-year contract extension with the Cleveland Browns worth $100.5 million, with $71.25 million guaranteed. This extension made him the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history at the time, emphasizing his value to the team.
Denzel Ward Injury update- FAQs
Denzel Ward sustained his concussion during the Browns' preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs on August 26, 2023.
The recent concussion that Denzel Ward suffered in August 2023 was reported as his fourth concussion in his career.
The Browns are following the NFL's concussion protocol to ensure Denzel Ward's safety and well-being as he recovers from his concussion.
Martin Emerson Jr. is mentioned as a potential replacement for Denzel Ward if he is unable to play in the season opener.
Denzel Ward has been kept out of full practice sessions since sustaining his concussion. He has been limited to stretching and individual drills.